A Haverhill, Massachusetts man has recently been charged with motor vehicle homicide by negligent operation and failing to slow for a pedestrian in a crosswalk after fatally striking a Massachusetts pedestrian last fall.
The 67-year-old driver was traveling on School Street in Haverhill when he struck the 74-year-old woman. According to the Eagle Tribune, the driver told Haverhill police that he was on his way back home after visiting the Essex County Probate Court in Salem and was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A trial date has been set for September 15 in Haverhill District Court.
Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern in Massachusetts. According to the Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Security, nearly 1/4 of all motor-vehicle related fatalities in Massachusetts involve pedestrians. Non-fatal pedestrian injuries are even more common in Massachusetts and on the national stage. In fact, the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration notes that a pedestrian injury occurs once every 8 minutes.
Most pedestrian accidents are the result of a driver's negligence. Pursuant to Massachusetts law, pedestrians are granted the "right of way" when walking along roadways, especially inside crosswalks. Drivers must be cognizant of pedestrians, slow down, and pass only when safe to do so. Pedestrians must also exhibit reasonable caution when crossing roads.
Click here to read more about this case in the Eagle-Tribune newspaper.
The Massachusetts personal injury lawyers at Bellotti Law Group are experienced in handling cases involving motor vehicle accidents and pedestrian accidents. We have served Greater Boston for 20 years and are conveniently located in Cambridge and Quincy. If you have been injured, it is important to learn your rights for seeking compensation. For a free consultation, contact us today at 617-225-2100 or 800-334-3476 or use our contact form.
