Schuelke Law Warns Austin Residents of the Risks of Pedestrian Accidents

A car struck a pedestrian at the intersection of Crumley Lane and Montopolis Drive in November 2024, claiming the life of the pedestrian. 

The accident occurred around 6:30 p.m. on November 11, 2024 in southeast Austin. Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS) responded to the scene after receiving a report that a vehicle had struck a pedestrian. The pedestrian suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. 

“As the days get shorter, it’s important for all Texans to watch out for each other on the roads,” says Austin pedestrian accident attorney Brooks Schuelke.

A recent study by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) found that October was the deadliest month of 2023 for Texas pedestrians. In October 2023, 80 pedestrians died in traffic collisions in Texas. 

The fall and winter months can be especially dangerous for Texas pedestrians. Shorter days mean less light in the morning and evening, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians. Rain and other weather conditions can also make it harder for drivers and pedestrians to see one another or to avoid a collision. 

In Texas, fall also means cooler weather. In cooler temperatures, more people choose to walk for exercise or to travel. More pedestrians on the road means more risk of a crash unless drivers stay vigilant.

Texas roads have also been getting riskier for pedestrians overall. Since 2019, pedestrian crash deaths have risen by 22 percent in Texas. Pedestrians are also more likely to suffer fatal injuries in a crash: Although pedestrians account for only one percent of all Texas roadway collisions, they account for 19 percent of roadway deaths. 

Many Texas pedestrian accidents are preventable. Drivers can help prevent these accidents by yielding to pedestrians in intersections and crosswalks, avoiding distractions while driving, using caution around parked cars, and driving at a safe speed for roadway conditions. Staying sober behind the wheel can also help prevent pedestrian crashes.