Accidents on LSU Campus Threaten Student Pedestrian Safety
A recent string of pedestrian accidents on the LSU campus has students worried for their safety. Drivers often do not know that pedestrians have the right of way, which contributes to the accidents.
December 01, 2012
A recent string of pedestrian accidents on the Louisiana State University campus in Baton Rouge has many students concerned. Three accidents involving student pedestrians occurred during a two-week period. In each of the accidents, the pedestrian had the right of way.In the first accident, a 21-year-old student was relaxing in the grass on the campus quad when a maintenance truck drove past and rolled over the student's upper body. The student suffered facial injuries.
Another accident occurred just six days later. This one involved a 25-year-old student who was struck by a white Buick Lucerne while standing in a crosswalk. The vehicle was attempting to turn left and did not see the student, who had the right of way. The student suffered head and facial injuries.
A third student was hit by a white Chevrolet Suburban when riding a longboard in a crosswalk. The student was reported to be in stable condition following the accident.
Accidents reflect disturbing trend
Unfortunately, these accidents are not simply recent freak occurrences, but reflect a growing trend in and around the campus. Safety is a major concern among current LSU students.
A campus poll conducted by The Daily Reveille revealed that 73 percent of students who responded have come close to being hit by a vehicle while walking on campus. One student told the newspaper that cars normally just speed through pedestrian walkways on campus without acknowledging student pedestrians.
Last year an LSU cheerleader suffered a concussion, hematoma and neck injuries after being struck by a vehicle. Another student hit in a crosswalk sustained a broken leg.
Why the campus is dangerous for pedestrians
There are very few sidewalks or bike paths on the LSU-Baton Rouge campus. This means crosswalks are often the only option for students.
For example, East Boyd Drive, where two popular campus bars are located, has no pedestrian sidewalks. Neither does Burbank Drive, which is home to many student apartments and restaurants.
Suggestions to improve safety
Students say the administration should put more effort into promoting the fact that the campus is a pedestrian campus. They also urge that more signs be put up indicating that pedestrians have the right of way.
A spokesperson from the local police department says the key is continuing to educate the public on the importance of paying attention. This includes both drivers and pedestrians.
Additional sidewalks and bike lanes are also recommended. Other suggestions include increasing the amount of green space on campus or perhaps even converting to a pedestrian-only campus.
A pedestrian injured by a motor vehicle may be entitled to compensation. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, a Louisiana personal injury attorney can help you understand your options.
Article provided by Murphy Law Firm LLC
Visit us at www.batonrougeinjuryaccidentattorney.com