Utah officials are calling for increased driver caution as the state experiences a rise in auto-pedestrian crashes. In the past five weeks, 11 people have died in such incidents, bringing the total number of auto-pedestrian crashes this year to over 800. While the number of fatalities is lower compared to last year, recent weeks have seen an uptick in pedestrian deaths. Authorities emphasize that drivers need to remain attentive and anticipate pedestrians entering the roadway. Pedestrians are advised to make eye contact with drivers and ensure they are seen before crossing. Jonathon Sharp,Kade Garner reported
According to ABC4, Utah officials are urging drivers to exercise more caution due to a recent increase in auto-pedestrian accidents over the past five weeks. Sergeant Cameron Roden of the Utah Highway Patrol stated that during this time, 11 people have lost their lives after being struck by vehicles. The number of auto-pedestrian crashes in the state has reached over 800 so far this year, with 34 of them being fatal. While this may seem alarming, it is actually lower than the number of pedestrian deaths at the same time last year, which was 48.
However, there has been a recent spike in concern as three fatal pedestrian crashes have already occurred in the first few days of November this year. One of the most recent incidents took place in Logan, where a jogger was fatally struck by a pickup truck. The victim was identified as 58-year-old Shelley Compton from North Logan. Although the investigation is still ongoing, local police have revealed that she was not using a crosswalk when the accident happened.
It is worth noting that drivers involved in such accidents rarely face charges, as pointed out by local law enforcement. However, Curtis Hooley, the assistant chief for Logan police, emphasized the importance for drivers to keep their focus on the road and be prepared for the possibility of pedestrians entering the roadway at any moment. Hooley mentioned that distractions in the car can contribute to accidents and urged drivers to be more vigilant.
In addition, officials advised pedestrians not to assume that drivers can see them. Lieutenant Will Farr from Ogden police advised pedestrians to make eye contact with drivers, ensuring that they come to a complete stop, acknowledge their presence, and understand their intention to cross the road.
Overall, Utah is experiencing a concerning rise in auto-pedestrian accidents, prompting officials to raise awareness and encourage both drivers and pedestrians to take necessary precautions to prevent further tragedies on the roads..