Pedestrian accident tragic for all involved

It seemed like a good idea at the time; a beautiful spring day is the perfect time to go for a walk with a loved one. Walking along a street is a daily activity for many Massachusetts families. It is a great way to get in some exercise and spend time with loved ones. Yet, when drivers do not adhere to the rules of the road, a devastating pedestrian accident can turn a relaxing walk into a tragedy for all involved.

Several years ago, a 61-year-old Massachusetts man decided to go for a walk with his wife. As they were walking along a local street, a car ran into him, resulting in critical injuries. Fortunately, the man survived; however, he spent considerable time in the hospital.

The driver involved has now been sentenced to jail. She was convicted of driving under the influence and injuring another individual as a result of this accident. Thus, she will spend the next 30 months in a Massachusetts correctional center.

The fact that the driver will spend time in jail does serve some form of justice. However, it does not relieve the financial, physical or emotional burden that her actions caused for this victim’s family. The man has the separate right to pursue civil action against the driver.

Drivers are responsible for their actions. When one chooses to drink and then drive, he or she is responsible for this decision. When this decision results in a pedestrian accident along a Massachusetts roadway, the outcome can be tragic for everyone.

Source: wwlp.com, “Woman sentenced to 2 1/2 years in jail for hitting pedestrian with her car”, Anthony Fay, Sept. 30, 2016