Sadly, two separate fatal pedestrian accidents occurred this week on St. Louis roadways. In one instance, a pedestrian was struck and killed while attempting to run across Interstate 55 near 7th street. In the other accident, two teenagers were killed while attempting to push a stalled vehicle off a road in Jefferson County near Hillsboro.
One of the scariest things for a motorist is having your car break down on a busy road. It can be especially dangerous if it happens after dark, during inclement weather, or on a bridge.
The most important thing to remember in a break down situation is to remain calm. The number one priority is the safety of you and your passengers.
If you experience a vehicle breakdown, follow these important tips:
- If possible, get your car out of the flow of traffic lanes. This means pulling as far over to the right as possible and onto the shoulder, emergency lane or into the grass.
- Even if you have a flat tire, continue driving until your car is out of the traffic lanes. If you are on a bridge – continue driving until you are safely across.
- If you are in a dangerous spot such as a busy highway or bridge – call 911 immediately and let them know your location, so Highway Patrol can assist you.
- Turn on your hazards. Keep your vehicle running and the lights on.
- It is highly recommended that you remain inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened.
- If you feel you must exit the vehicle, only do so if you are absolutely sure you can make it safely across all lanes of traffic. Proceed quickly to the right side of the road and walk at least 2 car lengths in the direction of the oncoming traffic. You want to avoid being near the car in case a rear-end collision occurs.
- When calling 911 or roadside assistance, know your exact location. If you have cell service, you can use your phone’s GPS to pinpoint your exact location. If you don’t have cell service and you are unfamiliar with the area, look for signage, mile markers, businesses, buildings or landmarks.
- Keep your state’s Roadside Assistance numbers in your phone contacts.
MoDOT: (314) 275-1500 or *55 IDOT: (618) 346-3100 or *999
Casey & Devoti is a St. Louis-based personal injury law firm. Together Partners Matt Casey and Matt Devoti have nearly 40 years of trial experience. They handle a variety of personal injury matters, including: car, truck and train accidents, victims of impaired and distracted driving, medical malpractice and birth injuries, product liability, slips/trips/falls, elder care and sexual abuse, Workers’ Compensation, and wrongful death. Matt and Matt proudly serve clients throughout metropolitan St. Louis, southeastern Missouri and southern Illinois. If you or a loved one have been injured by the negligence of another, call the office today for a free, no-obligation consultation: (314) 421-0763.
