DC Injury Lawyer Blog
Pedestrian fatalities do not only happen in crosswalks or downtown intersections. A recent early morning crash on I-495 in Prince George’s County shows how quickly danger can escalate when a vehicle is left on the shoulder and someone attempts to cross fast-moving lanes of traffic. Reports confirmed that the incident took place around 3:12 a.m. near College Park and resulted in the death of a person who had exited a parked Honda Civic before being struck by an oncoming Toyota.
While full details are still under investigation, authorities believe the individual left their disabled vehicle and attempted to cross several active lanes on foot. The crash closed parts of the Beltway for hours as officials from multiple agencies worked to examine the scene and coordinate next steps with the State’s Attorney’s Office.
Breakdowns on Highways Can Become Fatal Without Warning
Vehicle trouble on an interstate is already stressful. Drivers may feel panicked when their car breaks down or they must pull onto the shoulder. In those moments, decisions are made quickly, sometimes with life-threatening consequences. Exiting a vehicle and walking near or across high-speed traffic is extremely dangerous, especially before sunrise when visibility is limited.
In this case, law enforcement reported that the vehicle was parked on the shoulder of the outer loop, and the pedestrian attempted to cross the inner loop lanes. That maneuver places a person directly in the path of oncoming vehicles, many of which are traveling at highway speeds and may not have a clear line of sight. A pedestrian on foot, even if trying to reach help, is nearly invisible to drivers under these conditions.
Responsibility and Risk in Early Morning Highway Collisions
When crashes happen in the middle of the night or early morning, investigators must assess whether lighting, driver alertness, or road conditions played a role. A motorist driving early may be less likely to notice someone on foot, especially when unexpected movement occurs in dark areas without shoulders broad enough to accommodate safe passage.
Although the facts in this case are still being confirmed, it serves as a reminder that pedestrians are at extreme risk when crossing major highways, regardless of intent. Maryland traffic law generally prohibits pedestrians from entering restricted access roadways, but emergencies blur the lines. That is why context matters. Each case must be reviewed based on the circumstances that led to the pedestrian’s presence in the roadway.
Legal Claims May Arise Even When the Circumstances Are Unusual
Surviving family members may wonder whether they have the right to file a claim when a loved one dies in such a scenario. The answer often depends on the full scope of what happened. Even if the pedestrian made a risky decision, the vehicle that struck them may have been speeding, distracted, or operating recklessly. Alternatively, a lack of proper barriers, poor lighting, or roadway design could also contribute to fault.
In wrongful death cases, multiple parties may be considered liable. That includes drivers, employers of commercial vehicles, or even agencies responsible for highway design and maintenance. A thorough review is essential to ensure every contributing factor is considered when a collision leads to death.
Call The Schupak Law Firm for Help After a Fatal Pedestrian Crash in Maryland
Pedestrian fatalities along Maryland highways are tragic and often preventable. At The Schupak Law Firm, we help families get answers after a loved one is killed in a traffic collision. Whether the crash occurred near a residential neighborhood or on an interstate like I-495, you should understand your legal rights and the options available to pursue justice.
Call The Schupak Law Firm today at (240) 833-3914 to schedule a free consultation. We represent clients across Prince George’s County and throughout Maryland. If someone you love was involved in a pedestrian accident, we support you every step of the way.