Following two crashes in the Rio Linda area of Sacramento County, a pedestrian died, and another man was seriously injured on September 14th

According to the California Highway Patrol North Sacramento Division, a driver struck a vehicle and killed a pedestrian in the 500 block of Elkhorn Boulevard near Rio Linda then proceeded to drive away. The pedestrian was identified as 32-year-old Brian Jakob Mcintyre by the Sacramento County Coroner’s Office on Friday. 

Pedestrian cross light reflecting out onto road

According to a report by another driver, CHP said that the pedestrian had been spotted in the roadway and they swerved to try and avoid them. The driver went off the roadway and into the property of a nearby home sometime around 9:45 PM. CHP said the vehicle did not hit the actual home. The driver in this crash was transported to a nearby hospital and was in critical condition. 

In a report by KRCA 3, the driver had a juvenile daughter in his vehicle and was uninjured.

The cause of the first crash in which the pedestrian was hit has not yet been released. It is unknown if drugs or alcohol played a factor in either crash.

“It’s unfortunate that the life of a pedestrian and another driver were severely altered as a result of a negligent driver,” said Gerald Singleton, personal injury attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “The increase in pedestrian-related injuries and incidents is an alarming issue that the community of Sacramento needs to address and take into consideration.”

If you or someone you loved has been injured in a pedestrian or car accident, contact the Sacramento personal injury or wrongful death lawyers at Singleton Schreiber by calling 559-702-0846 or by email info@singletonschreiber.com.

Fatal Sacramento Pedestrian Accidents

Sacramento, California, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, has recently been marred by a deeply concerning trend – a surge in fatal pedestrian accidents. These tragic incidents have resulted in the loss of precious lives and have raised urgent questions about the safety of the city’s streets.

Sacramento has witnessed a distressing increase in fatal pedestrian accidents over recent years. These accidents, often involving pedestrians struck by vehicles, have not only left families shattered but have also cast a shadow over the city’s commitment to road safety. The mounting frequency of these incidents calls for immediate attention and action.

Several factors contribute to the growing number of fatal pedestrian accidents in Sacramento:

  • Distracted Driving: The use of smartphones, GPS devices, and other distractions by drivers can divert their attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed is a common factor in many pedestrian accidents, as higher speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and the severity of injuries to pedestrians.
  • Lack of Crosswalks: Inadequate crosswalks and pedestrian infrastructure in certain areas can lead to pedestrians crossing streets in unsafe locations.
  • Driver Fatigue: Fatigued drivers have impaired reaction times, making them more likely to strike pedestrians, especially during nighttime hours.
  • Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of pedestrian accidents.
  • Poor Lighting: Inadequate street lighting can reduce visibility for both pedestrians and drivers, increasing the risk of accidents, particularly at night.

The consequences of fatal pedestrian accidents in Sacramento are devastating and far-reaching:

  • Loss of Life: Families are left to grapple with the sudden and tragic loss of their loved ones, leaving a permanent void in their lives.
  • Emotional Trauma: Survivors of pedestrian accidents and witnesses often suffer from severe emotional and psychological trauma.
  • Community Grief: Fatal pedestrian accidents have a profound impact on the entire community, prompting grief and calls for safer streets.
  • Safety Concerns: These accidents can erode public confidence in the safety of the city’s roadways, causing pedestrians to feel less secure when walking.

Addressing the rising toll of fatal pedestrian accidents in Sacramento requires a multifaceted approach:

  • Stricter Law Enforcement: Implement and enforce strict regulations against distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and other hazardous behaviors.
  • Improved Infrastructure: Invest in pedestrian infrastructure, including well-marked crosswalks, adequate lighting, and pedestrian-friendly street designs.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate both drivers and pedestrians about safe road-sharing practices and the importance of mutual respect.
  • Reduced Speed Limits: Consider lowering speed limits in areas with high pedestrian traffic to reduce the severity of accidents.
  • Enhanced Crosswalk Safety: Implement pedestrian-activated crossing signals and high-visibility crosswalk markings to enhance pedestrian safety.
  • Community Involvement: Engage with the community to gather input and insights into areas that need safety improvements.

The rising toll of fatal pedestrian accidents in Sacramento is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention and action. By addressing the contributing factors and implementing preventative measures, the city can work towards making its streets safer for pedestrians and drivers alike. Collaboration between city officials, law enforcement agencies, advocacy groups, and the community is essential to curbing the escalating toll of fatal pedestrian accidents and ensuring that Sacramento remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone. It is time to prioritize road safety and prevent further tragedies on Sacramento’s streets.

“My hope is that anyone involved in this tragic incident seeks out the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney as there are many factors that make for a complex case,” added Mr. Singleton. “An attorney can assist in determining liability and fault in the matter. My thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones.”
If you or someone you loved has been injured in a pedestrian or car accident, contact the Sacramento personal injury or wrongful death lawyers at Singleton Schreiber by calling 559-702-0846 or by email info@singletonschreiber.com.