Related: “Look Alive Louisville” Program Aims To Reduce Pedestrian Deaths
Jason Aldean’s tour bus accident
One of the most popular and most loved country music stars of this decade is Jason Aldean. For those of you who don’t know who he is you might know a few of his songs. A couple of his most popular songs are Big Green Tractor, Night Train, Dirt Road Anthem and She’s Country. Unfortunately, on Monday, October 28, 2013, Aldean’s tour bus struck and killed a pedestrian who walked out onto the highway where his bus was traveling. Aldean, who was traveling to Illinois for a vacation after wrapping up his tour, was the only passenger on the bus. The accident happened in Knox County, Indiana. The victim was identified as Albert Kennedy, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The country super star took to Twitter to express his sincerest apologies to Kennedy’s loved ones. Aldean tweeted, “With a heavy heart, I’m sad to say that a man passed away last night after stepping out in front of my bus in Indiana, in all the years I’ve been touring and all the miles we’ve driven, nothing prepares you for something like this to happen. I’m praying for Albert Kennedy’s family and friends today and ask that you do the same.”
With a heavy heart, I’m sad to say that a man passed away last night after stepping out in front of my bus in Indiana… http://t.co/Jgwz9Eojed
— Jason_Aldean (@Jason_Aldean) October 28, 2013
Pedestrian accidents
It is a tragedy when a pedestrian is killed by any type of vehicle accident. Fortunately, these accidents can be prevented. It’s both the pedestrian’s and the driver’s responsibility to watch out for each other. Here are a few tips for both pedestrians and drivers to keep in mind:
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Never drive or walk distracted. Put your phones and other devices away.
- For pedestrians, always make yourself visible. Wear brightly colored clothing and cross the street at cross walks (when they are available).
- For drivers, scan sidewalks and crosswalks for pedestrians. If you’re at an intersection where it’s hard to see around an object, like a bush is blocking your view of a sidewalk, proceed through the intersection slowly and with caution. That way if you see a pedestrian you will have more time to react and stop.
Related: The Dangers of Distracted Driving
As a Kentucky Pedestrian Attorney, I am very proud of Jason Aldean for taking responsibility for this accident. Maybe he can use his popularity to talk about the importance of being fully aware of your surroundings. He could also remind everyone to always be mindful of pedestrians and other cars on the road when you are behind the wheel. Unfortunately, accidents can happen at any time, so please always be aware when you’re driving to your destination.