Many of us in the metro area love how we can walk and bike just about anywhere. Indeed, with a short subway ride, our bikes or feet can get us just about anywhere. Unfortunately, we also live in an extremely congested city, frequented by tourists year-round. This means that, while our bikes and feet may be convenient, it is also dangerous. This fact was exemplified Monday when two pedestrian-involved car accidents occurred.
Cyclists killed by Children’s National Hospital shuttle
According to the Washington, D.C., Police, the fatal car accident occurred at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and 10th Street just after 11:00 a.m. in Northwest D.C. The cyclist was traveling northeast when he was impacted by the Children’s National Hospital employee shuttle.
The cyclist was taken to a nearby hospital, but the 47-year-old D.C. local was pronounced dead after 8:30 p.m. Luckily, only the driver was in the shuttle, and he was unharmed.
The Michigan Avenue and 10th Street intersection has been a concern for residents for some time as accidents are a common occurrence. The accident is still under investigation by WDCP.
Pedestrian struck along I-66
The second incident occurred later Monday afternoon. WDCP sated that a vehicle was traveling northwest on I-66 when the vehicle impacted a man near Virginia Avenue. While the pedestrian is still alive, WDCP stated the victim was in critical condition.
Dangerous roadways
According to the District Department of Transportation, in just the first 60 days of this month, our streets have seen nearly 500 car accidents, of which about 80 have involved a pedestrian or bicycle. That means that every day in D.C., there is at least one, possibly two, bicycle or pedestrian accidents, and over eight car accidents a day. And, already five people, including three pedestrians, have been killed.
Options after a car accident
For residents in Bethesda, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. metro area, including Virginia, after a car accident, survivors have options. Through a personal injury lawsuit, survivors can hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions and get the civil justice and compensation they deserve. But, the first step is contacting an attorney.