In most instances, society focuses on the rules of the road as they relate to drivers, which makes sense since the operation of enormous pieces of machinery that can move at blinding speeds can be dangerous to society as a whole.
However, accountability for pedestrians is important too, as streets, traffic lights and crosswalks are designed to promote the safety of those walking around the neighborhood. If pedestrians are in the right place and are moving about at the right time, the likelihood of something tragic taking place is reduced significantly.
Unfortunately, 57-year-old Claudette Mauge was struck at the intersection of North Dixie Highway and West Sample Road on the afternoon of September 28. Mauge was found unresponsive by Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue authorities and was confirmed dead at the scene of the accident.
Reports indicate that Mauge wasn’t using the crosswalk when crossing the street.
The 21-year-old driver of the 2018 Honda Accord that hit Mauge remained at the scene of the incident to speak with authorities and answer questions. Based on the initial findings of the investigation, it doesn’t appear that alcohol or any foreign substances were present in the driver’s system, and the Accord was not deemed to be speeding at the time of the accident.
While it may seem like the coast is clear with regards to oncoming traffic, it’s important to remember as a pedestrian that a driver might not be predisposed to stopping on an area of the road that isn’t governed by a traffic light or crosswalk if they have the right of way.
Claudette Mauge’s death was a loss for our community– our sincerest condolences go out to her family and friends.
The seasoned professionals at Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath have handled a multitude of cases in the motor vehicle space, and can be reached at (561) 655-1990 in case this happens to you.
