Millikin University Student Injured In Decatur Car Accident
Pedestrian Accident - September 26, 2024
Investigation Underway After Millikin University Student Injured In Decatur Pedestrian Accident Along West Main Street
DECATUR, ILLINOIS (September 25, 2024) – An 18-year-old Millikin University student was injured in a Decatur pedestrian accident along West Main Street.
Decatur Police Department officials are saying that the collision took place around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The student was crossing the street when they were hit by a red Ford 150 pickup truck.
An 83-year-old man from Decatur was driving the truck. Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim.
He was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Decatur Pedestrian Accidents
Car accidents remain one of the leading causes of preventable injury in the United States. Pedestrians lack the protection of enclosed vehicles and are therefore particularly at risk. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “In 2021 there were an estimated 60,577 pedestrians injured in traffic crashes, an 11-percent increase from 54,771 pedestrians injured in 2020.” Cities can take a number of measures in order to prevent pedestrian collisions.
- Cities can install pedestrian bridges to remove pedestrians from certain crossings altogether.
- Cities should ensure that all intersections are well illuminated so that drivers can see pedestrians trying to cross.
- Cities can install traffic-calming measures in order to reduce instances of speeding.
All drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicle in a safe manner in order to avoid collisions. Pursuant to Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/11-1003.1, every driver must exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian. They must also use their horns when necessary and exercise the proper precautions to avoid colliding with any child or obviously confused person. When a driver fails to slow down to avoid hitting a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. Victims of pedestrian accidents tend to suffer very serious injuries.
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Lacerations
- Spinal cord trauma
Many of the injuries associated with pedestrian accidents may not be obvious until some time later. This is particularly true with respect to psychological injuries. Survivors of pedestrian collisions often suffer from long-term psychological injuries, including post-traumatic stress disorder. This is why it is so important that accident victims understand that they do have rights. Any person injured in a Decatur pedestrian accident may be able to seek aid through a personal injury claim.
Investigating Macon County Pedestrian Accidents
We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our best wishes to the Millikin University student injured in this collision. It is our sincere hope that the victim is able to make a full recovery. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what went wrong. Any person who may have more information should reach out to the Decatur Police Department.
Do you need more information about a Decatur pedestrian accident? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims get the support and justice that they are entitled to under the law. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.
