Clifton, New Jersey accident claims life of Passaic woman

April 05, 2014 (Press-News.org) Clifton, New Jersey accident claims life of Passaic woman

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Each day, many Americans rely on their own ability to get around, without the use of a vehicle. Despite the availability of sidewalks and other thoroughfares, pedestrians are often at risk of accident or injury due to the presence and actions of unsafe drivers.

According to NJ.com, a 39-year-old woman from Passaic, New Jersey lost her life after being struck and killed on Route 3. At the time of the pedestrian accident, the woman was walking on the highway. The accident happened around three in the morning. Police are investigating the incident to determine why the victim was on the roadway at the time of the incident.

Reports indicate that the 25-year-old driver who caused the car accident that struck and killed the woman was driving while her driver's license was suspended. She was placed in police custody, and later released on $15,000 bail.

Driving with a suspended license plays major role in pedestrian deaths

A report by the Automobile Association of America indicates that those operating a vehicle without a license or with a suspended license are "significantly more likely to be involved in fatal crashes." The study indicated that one in every five fatal crashes each year involved a driver that is "definitely" or "possibly" driving with an invalid license or no license at all. The report also showed that nearly 12 percent of drivers involved in fatal crashes had multiple license suspensions or revocations on their driving record during a three-year period prior to the reported crash.

The NJ.com report does not indicate the reason why the driver's license was suspended, or whether she had multiple suspensions on her record preceding the accident.

State safety guidelines recommended by the federal government

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that pedestrian fatalities are on the rise year after year. In 2011, nearly 4,500 pedestrians lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents.

The Administration produced uniform guidelines recommended for each state. The guidelines indicate that each State Highway Safety Office should implement the following:
-Training for program staff, aimed at coordinating activities recommended by the Administration.

-Provision of leadership, training and technical assistance by the national administration for the benefit of state and local pedestrian safety programs.

-Frequent evaluation of programs and activities aimed at determining pedestrian fatality, injury and crash trends.

-Coordinated efforts with the state transportation departments to ensure proper engineering measures, including sidewalks and other safe environments for pedestrians.

-Programs that support increased enforcement of laws and regulations in place to protect pedestrians.

Pedestrians are almost always at a risk of injury or accident caused by unsafe drivers. While one may exercise safe habits, it's impossible to control the actions of those behind the wheel. If you or someone you know has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney, who can lead you in the path to the best possible recovery in your action.