Norfolk’s Old Dominion University Leads the Way in Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrian safety is a constant concern in Hampton Roads. In areas where there is a high level of foot traffic, it seems like accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians are constantly in the news. Unfortunately, the pedestrian usually ends up suffering the most severe injuries in these kinds of accident.

Earlier this month in Suffolk, an elderly woman was struck while trying to cross West Washington Street at its intersection with South Street. The woman was severely injured as a result of the collision with a Dodge Ram pickup truck. These kids of accidents are far from uncommon.

Officials at Norfolk’s Old Dominion University have recognized the potential for serious injuries to pedestrians walking around their campus. A college campus is especially vulnerable to pedestrian-vehicle accidents. With upwards of 20,000 students walking to and from classes, foot traffic is exceptionally high. To combat the risk of accidents, ODU officials recently installed flashing beacons at crosswalks on 43rd Street—a very busy road abutting the campus’s southern border. These beacons are triggered when a pedestrian approaches a sensor at the crosswalk and drivers on 43rd Street subsequently receive a flashing warning that there is a pedestrian either within or very near to the crosswalk.

While the news always tells the story of the accidents that did occur, we never hear about the close calls. I know firsthand that crossing the surrounding streets can be a lethal undertaking.

These problems are not new, and unfortunately change is a slow process. People—both drivers and pedestrians—are busy, in a rush, and not looking to be delayed for any reason. But, in the words of one of my favorite bumper stickers states, Give us a BRAKE!, it could save a life.

This month Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers have written a series of articles about pedestrian safety which we hope you have found useful.

If you have been hurt, the attorneys at Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers can provide you with a thorough explanation of your legal rights. Please call us at 757-333-3333 for a free consultation. Have a happy and safe school year!