Last week, a teenage bicyclist was hit and killed
in the crosswalk on Viers Mill Road at Turkey Branch Parkway. This crosswalk is at the bottom of a hill,
and many drivers do not stop for pedestrians.
In fact, most drivers cruise through the crosswalk well above the 45 mph
posted speed limit. The Matthew Henson
Trail is a popular trail that runs on both sides of the street. This is a very wide street with several lanes
of traffic for pedestrians and bikers to get through before making it to the
other side. There is currently a safety
device in place that will flash lights at the top of the hill when crossing
pedestrians hit a button. Oftentimes,
drivers do not notice the lights and fail to slow down when approaching the
crosswalk.
Montgomery County Police
Captain wants to constantly remind drivers to be cautious when driving down
this section of Viers Mill Road.
Maryland drivers should know that it is state law for cars to stop at
crosswalks when pedestrians are waiting to cross. Even though pedestrians have the right of
way, they too should be aware of their surroundings and remain cautious when
crossing. Many are urging county
officials to take more action to protect lives at this intersection. One plan calls for installing flashing lights
in the crosswalk so that it stands out for drivers to see, especially at night.
Pedestrian accidents
are some of the worst, but also some of the most avoidable. A majority of pedestrian accidents are caused
by driver negligence, such as texting while driving and speeding. Police statewide have been increasing patrols
for cell phone use while driving as part of the state’s plan for zero deaths on
Maryland roadways. Pedestrians must
remember to always check for incoming traffic because drivers cannot be trusted
to stop at a crosswalk.
If you
or a family member have been injured or killed in a Maryland pedestrian
accident and would like to consult an experienced personal injury attorney for
free, contact our office at (301) 854-9000 to schedule an appointment at one of
our office locations in Rockville
or throughout Maryland or visit us online at
http://www.portnerandshure.com/Personal-Injury/
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