Pickup Truck Kills Pedestrian in Spring Hill

August 24, 2012

An unidentified man was struck and killed by a pickup truck on County Line Road early Tuesday morning.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 2007 Toyota pickup driven by a 24-year-old Brooksville resident hit a man who allegedly ran across County Line around 1 a.m.

The impact of the collision apparently threw the pedestrian into a culvert on the south side of County Line. The driver of the truck, who suffered no injuries, pulled over to the side of the road.

The pedestrian was taken to Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point. Once there, he passed away.

Toxicology reports are pending for both the driver and the pedestrian.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, on average, each year automobile vs. pedestrian accidents claim at least 5,000 lives. Additionally, more
than 78,000 pedestrians suffer serious injuries each year as a result of being hit by a car or truck. Even when traveling at low speeds, cars and trucks pose a huge risk to pedestrians largely due to the fact that the average automobile weighs between 3,000 and 5,000 pounds. Pedestrians hit by a truck or other motor vehicle may suffer from brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, loss of limbs, broken bones or even death. It is a known fact that human bodies are not built to endure contact from a steel-framed motor vehicle like a truck, car or SUV.

Pedestrian accidents are usually caused by driver error or negligence, such as:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Texting while driving or talking on a cellphone
• Speeding or traveling too fast to be able to prevent crashing into the pedestrian
• Not paying attention to pedestrians in crosswalks, medians or in the road

Where a victim is struck depends on the size and shape of the motor vehicle. In most cases, the pedestrian is hit by the front of the vehicle. In general, most of the major injuries suffered in these accidents occur after the initial contact with the moving vehicle has been made, including when the victim hits the ground or comes into contact with other objects near the scene.

There are many ways pedestrians can avoid collisions with motor vehicles on roads and streets. Using common sense when approaching oncoming traffic, paying attention to traffic signs and focusing on the dangers associated with moving vehicles can help pedestrians escape potential collisions. However, not all accidents are entirely preventable, no matter how safe you are. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a pedestrian-related accident in Spring Hill, Brooksville or the surrounding areas, the Hernando County Injury and Wrongful Death Attorneys at Whittel & Melton can fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you need and deserve to get on with your life. Contact us today online or call us at 352-666-2121.