A 21-year-old Sergeant assigned to Fort Polk, Louisiana, died in a PMV-4 mishap 18 September 2022 at 0236 local. The Soldier reportedly left his residence prior to 0230 to take a walk and was struck by a civilian vehicle. The Anacoco Police Department received a 911 call from the driver of the civilian vehicle at 0236. Law enforcement personnel responded to the scene and found the Soldier dead. The civilian driver stayed on the scene and was cooperative with local authorities. First responders found the Soldier’s wallet and cellphone and used the items to confirm his identity. The Anacoco Police Department is currently investigating. The unit/safety points of contact are waiting for the Anacoco Police Department to release its final report.
Since 2017, the Army has lost an average of seven Soldiers a year to PMV-Pedestrian/Non-Motorist mishaps. This mishap was the third PMV-Pedestrian/Non-Motorist fatality of FY22 and below the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.
A PEDESTRIAN WAS KILLED EVERY 81 MINUTES IN TRAFFIC CRASHES IN 2020.
At some point in the day, everyone is a pedestrian. Unfortunately, pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high. In 2020, 6,516 pedestrians were killed, and an estimated 55,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration raises awareness of the dangers to pedestrians and provides tips to keep them safe.
8 Walking Safety Tips:
1.Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
2.Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
3.If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
4.Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
5.If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
6.Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
7.Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.
8.Embrace walking as a healthy form of transportation — get up, get out and get moving.