While we’ve all seen advertising campaigns encouraging people against the use of cell phones while driving, and while the dangers of driving while intoxicated are also well-known, that does not stop drivers from engaging in these actions on an all-too-regular basis. Unfortunately, one bad decision by a driver can result in a devastating accident.
In a recent tragic incident, a jogger was killed after being hit by a car being driven by a St. Paul attorney. The driver, age 60, hit the victim, age 35, where Dayton Avenue intersects with the Mississippi River Boulevard. The incident took place at around 4:30 in the afternoon. According to police observation at the scene of the accident, it is possible that the driver was driving while impaired by some sort of substance. A blood test is pending. Witnesses also report that the driver may have also been using his cell phone when the incident occurred. An investigation is ongoing.
The victim was an enthusiastic runner and bicyclist who even founded a club for bicyclists at 3M where he was employed. Friends remembered him as a “wonderful” guy who was passionate about being outside year-round. His friends and family note it’s ironic that the victim, who advocated for the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians on the road, lost his life after being hit by a vehicle while out for a jog.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder to drivers to always be on the lookout for pedestrians in their vicinity. All it takes is one act of bad judgement, such as driving while intoxicated or using a cell phone while behind the wheel, to cause a fatal accident. Families of pedestrians killed in car accidents may want to learn more about their legal rights, including filing a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party, if necessary.
Source: ktsp.com, “Man Killed While Out for a Run in St. Paul, Local Attorney Released from Custody,” Feb. 24, 2017