A pedestrian was struck and killed in San Diego in the early morning hours on Friday, July 29. The victim was replacing a tire on his truck
parked on the side of the road, when a Toyota sedan, driven by a 27-year-old male, veered off the road, and struck the parked vehicle, pushing it onto the victim and causing his fatal injuries. The 25-year-old pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.
It is never a good idea to hang out for long periods of time on the shoulder. One of the reasons is: you're never safe from cars veering off the road. Even a slight encroachment by a fast moving vehicle can cause a lot of damage. It can strike you, hit your parked car with you in it, or push the parked car on top of you, which is what happened in this tragic case. So if your tire blows out on the freeway, what should you do?
First, make sure to turn on your hazard lights. Make your car and yourself as visible as possible, so the other drivers will notice you. Some people choose to carry an accident kit in their car, which includes among other things, a reflective vest, a flashlight, glow sticks and a distress banner. You may drive with this kit in your car for years and years, and hopefully will never have to use it. But if you ever do - it may just save your life.
Secondly, call roadside assistance. The most common option is AAA or OnStar, and they usually come out within 30 minutes to an hour. Your insurance policy may also offer this service. They can swap out the flat tire or jump start a dead battery, getting you back on the road in no time. Their dedicated techs do this all the time, and they are much more efficient and knowledgeable than you or I could ever be. Leave these things to the professionals.
Finally, if all of the above fails, and you happen to be stranded on a road with fast moving cars weezing by, call 911. Nothing is worth risking your life.
Be prepared and stay safe out there!
