When we read about pedestrian accidents in the news, the stories often involve a distracted or reckless driver who simply neglects to keep an eye out for pedestrians. Often, these accidents occur at busy intersections in areas where visibility might be poor. Many people who are using the sidewalks or crossing the street on foot try to stay alert and safe to avoid getting hit, but some drivers do not take these same precautions.
Unfortunately, pedestrians can be in danger of getting hit by a car even if they are nowhere near an intersection or busy roadway. This was the case recently when a California man was run over by a car. The horrific accident took place in the parking lot of a gas station.
Early reports on the accident state that the driver of the car and his passenger pulled into the gas station parking lot in San Francisco to change a flat tire. It was 3:30 in the morning and there was a man hanging out at the gas station who approached the men who had been in the car. After a brief exchange, and for reasons yet to be determined, the pedestrian fell to the ground.
While the passenger ran into the station to call for emergency help, the motorist made a much different and more dangerous decision. He got into his car and tried to speed out of the parking lot. He did not get far because he ended up backing over the man on the ground, who was then trapped beneath the vehicle for nearly 10 minutes.
The pedestrian was seriously injured and was rushed to the hospital with serious head injuries. The extent of the damage remains to be seen, but in similar accidents, the extent of brain damage caused by a head injury can be quite severe.
This accident might serve as a grim reminder of how catastrophic all pedestrian accidents can be. Even if a vehicle is not speeding or tearing through an intersection without keeping an eye out for others, cars and trucks can cause serious damage to a person who is essentially unprotected in a collision. If a pedestrian has suffered injuries because of a negligent or reckless driver, the victim or the victim’s family has the right to explore their legal options for pursuing compensation.
Source: KTVU, “Police try to unravel bizarre San Francisco pedestrian accident,” May 29, 2014