A 62-year-old man named Dave Battiste Jr. was killed in a hit-and-run accident in Missouri City on January 28th, at around 10 pm. Battiste was in a wheelchair and was returning from the convenience store on Fondren Road to his girlfriend’s home when he was hit by an unknown vehicle. The victim was taken to the hospital and died from his injuries. The police are looking for information and are asking anyone with information to contact the Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers.
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Wheelchair Safety
There are several ways to use wheelchair safety to keep wheelchair pedestrians from car accidents:
- Proper Lighting: Installing bright lights or reflectors on wheelchairs can increase their visibility to drivers, especially in low-light conditions.
- Crosswalk Awareness: Ensuring that wheelchair users are aware of crosswalk locations and signal timings can help prevent accidents by giving them enough time to cross the road safely.
- Wheelchair Design: Designing wheelchairs with sturdy frames, secure belts, and protective features can help prevent injury in the event of a collision.
- Driver Education: Educating drivers about the need to be aware of and give way to wheelchair users can help reduce the number of accidents involving wheelchair pedestrians.
- Improved Infrastructure: Installing ramps, curb cuts, and designated pedestrian crossings for wheelchair users can help improve their mobility and reduce the risk of accidents.
- Improved Enforcement: Strengthening enforcement of traffic laws and regulations that protect the safety of wheelchair users can help reduce the number of accidents involving wheelchair pedestrians.
- Awareness Campaigns: Launching awareness campaigns to educate both drivers and wheelchair users about road safety can help prevent accidents and raise awareness about the importance of wheelchair safety.
How to avoid wheelchair accidents as a driver?
As a driver, there are several things you can do to help avoid wheelchair accidents. First, always be mindful of the space around you and be aware of any wheelchair users who may be in the area. Make sure to give them plenty of space and take extra care when turning corners. Secondly, always use your turn signals when making a turn and check your mirrors for any wheelchair users in the vicinity. Lastly, if you are driving a vehicle that has a ramp, make sure to check it regularly for any damage or loose connections that could cause a wheelchair accident. Following these steps can help you stay safe and avoid any potential wheelchair accidents.