Massachusetts Personal Injury Library
Common Massachusetts Pedestrian Accidents Involving Children
Did you know that pedestrian accidents are a major cause of child injury and death? Many children do not realize the danger that cars impose. They often do not hesitate to run into the street to grab a ball or ride their bicycles in the path of other vehicles. A pedestrian accident is especially devastating, as there is little protection for the victim when hit by a car weighing two tons or more.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) released a publication that discusses some of the most common types of accidents between young pedestrians and vehicles, which are as follows:
- Child running into the street at corner or mid-block. This type of Massachusetts pedestrian accident usually occurs in a neighborhood, when a child is darting into the street to retrieve a ball or object.
- Car turning into a child's path. Sometimes children fail to look both ways when crossing the street, because there is a green light or WALK signal, so they assume they are safe.
- Ice cream truck hides the view of a child. Children become excited when the ice cream truck arrives and may not be aware of any other cars around.
- Driver does not stop when a bus is unloading children. A bus can obstruct the view of a motorist, which can cause them to not see a child crossing in front of the bus.
- A car backing up. Children are often victims of accidents involving cars backing up from driveways, parking lots and roads. SUVs have become a major problem, because it can be difficult to see a child due to the height of the vehicle.
The injuries from pedestrian crashes tend to be catastrophic and life changing. There are some ways that these tragic accidents can be avoided. The NHTSA recommends that preschoolers be supervised at all times. Young children should not be allowed to cross the street without an adult. Parents should also explain the safe way to cross the street and should act as a role model.
If your child has been injured in a Massachusetts pedestrian accident, you need to contact an experienced Boston injury lawyer at Kiley Law Group at (800) 930-8145 or (978) 474-8670 for a free evaluation.
