When Connecticut festivalgoers congregate to see some of their favorite musical acts, few worry about the danger associated with auto-pedestrian accidents. A recent incident in Texas proves that pedestrian accidents can happen even on a road that has been closed off to the public. A 21-year-old driver in that state recently plowed through a crowd of revelers in an attempt to flee from police. Two people died and at least 23 were injured in the assault.
Authorities say that the at-fault driver was fleeing from police officers near one of the locations hosting the popular South by Southwest music festival. The man chose to flee from officers instead of pulling over for a traffic stop. The driver plowed through a barricade, nearly striking an officer, before accelerating through a crowd that was milling about on the street. Witnesses and video evidence indicate that the man did not hit his brakes, and in fact, he may have been intentionally accelerating into the crowd. He also hit several other vehicles before he was eventually subdued by officers with stun guns.
The driver said he was worried about being pulled over because he had outstanding warrants related to his child custody battle. Now, though, the man could face a serious prison sentence, as he has been charged with capital murder and nearly two dozen counts of aggravated assault with a vehicle.
Pedestrian accidents can happen in unexpected places. Even pedestrians who are following the law may be victimized by distracted or drunk drivers. Such victims deserve financial compensation for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. A Connecticut attorney may be able to assist residents who have been injured in an auto-pedestrian car accident.
Source: Connecticut Post, “Suspect in deadly South By Southwest crash charged” Will Weissert, Associated Press, Mar. 15, 2014
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