A 47-year-old woman from Union, Missouri was killed on Sunday evening after being hit by a car as she crossed Highway 47, near her home. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported that the woman had just been involved in a non-injury car accident and had gone to her house to retrieve her insurance information.
She returned to her car after nightfall. As she crossed the highway, she was struck by a 2000 Chevrolet Cobalt driven southbound on Highway 47, and was thrown several feet. According to Union Police, the driver attempted to stop as the woman crossed the highway, but it was too late. She was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
Although an investigation is ongoing, police say that no alcohol was involved in the crash.
The story underscores the importance of safety when drivers are involved in accidents, or when their cars are disabled on highways. While it is hard to believe when you are driving with the speed of traffic, cars are going exceptionally fast on highways. Add the lack of clear lighting on state highways, and people standing on the side of the road (or crossing as was the case here) are in great danger.
Indeed, drivers have a duty to look out for (and avoid) pedestrians. However, it is particularly difficult for drivers to see people at night. Because of that, the likelihood of a tragic accident increases.
The best course of action for drivers stranded on highways is to stay in the vehicle and contact the state patrol for assistance.
Source: StlToday.com, Woman is killed crossing highway in Union, November 6, 2012