Bear, DE (November 7, 2024) – A fatal pedestrian crash occurred on the night of Wednesday in Bear, Delaware, leaving one man dead. The Delaware State Police are currently investigating the incident, which took place at approximately 8:48 p.m. on Pulaski Highway (Hwy 40), just east of Wellington Drive. The tragic accident claimed the life of a 45-year-old man from Newark, Delaware.
According to the Delaware State Police, a 2016 blue Chevrolet Cruze was traveling westbound on Pulaski Hwy when, for reasons still under investigation, the pedestrian, whose identity is being withheld pending family notification, suddenly entered the path of the moving car. The driver of the Chevrolet was unable to avoid the collision, and the pedestrian was hit by the car.
Emergency medical services (EMS) responded promptly to the scene, but despite their efforts, the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. His body was transported to the Delaware Medical Examiner’s office for further examination. Authorities have stated that the investigation is ongoing, and they are working to determine the cause of the incident, including whether environmental or situational factors may have played a role.
The driver of the Chevrolet, a 22-year-old woman from Newark, Delaware, and her 2-month-old passenger were not injured in the crash. Both were evaluated by EMS and remained at the scene to provide statements and assist investigators. The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is leading the investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Our thoughts are with those hurt in this crash. We hope for a rapid recovery.
Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Bear: A Warning for Road Safety
Fatal pedestrian accidents in Delaware have been on the rise in recent years. According to the Delaware Office of Highway Safety, in 2022 alone, Delaware saw 34 pedestrian fatalities, the highest number in over a decade. A significant portion of these fatalities occurred on high-traffic highways, such as Pulaski Hwy (Hwy 40), where pedestrians often share the road with vehicles traveling at high speeds. Pedestrian fatalities account for nearly 25% of all traffic-related deaths in the state, making it one of the most pressing public safety concerns for both residents and local authorities.
Studies show that pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur during the evening or nighttime hours, as was the case in Bear when the crash occurred after dark. Factors such as poor visibility, distractions, and pedestrians walking outside of designated crosswalks contribute to the heightened risks. According to national traffic safety data, pedestrian deaths have increased by 40% since 2009, a trend that parallels the rise in vehicle speeds and distracted driving. In response to these alarming statistics, Delaware has been working on initiatives to improve pedestrian safety, including better street lighting, improved crosswalk markings, and stricter traffic enforcement in high-risk areas.
In a wrongful death case, survivors may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including but not limited to funeral expenses, medical costs incurred before death, loss of income and future earnings, and compensation for pain and suffering. Delaware law also allows for the recovery of emotional distress and loss of companionship for surviving family members.
If you have lost a loved one in a Bear pedestrian crash, our proficient Delaware wrongful death attorneys at Murphy & Landon can be your best allies to pursue justice for your tragic loss. Murphy & Landon provides compassionate and assertive legal representation to grieving families after the sudden loss of a loved one in a crash.
To speak with our attorney about your loved one’s Bear pedestrian accident, call us at (302) 472-8112 to schedule a free initial appointment. We will work tirelessly to help you recover from your heartbreaking loss.
Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Contact Murphy & Landon if you locate any inaccurate information. We will update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.
Disclaimer: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, get medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at this accident scene.
