James A. Kelly, 17 years old, stepped out onto the right lane of U.S. Highway 50 in Missouri around 1 a.m. on Saturday, December 24^th, 2011.  The reason for him walking onto the highway is unknown.  He was hit by a Chevrolet Impala, driven by Debra F. Schlomer.

A call went out to the Highway Patrol and they were told that the accident occurred west of M-131.  However, the accident actually happened about two miles east of M-131.  This mistake caused the ambulance to be delayed in getting Kelley medical attention.  Kelly arrived at the Research Medical Center in Kansas City,MO with serious injuries, but he was alive.  No new reports have been received about his condition.

If your automobile were to break down on the highway, it is best to pull over as far as possible and stay with your vehicle. Dial “47” on a cellular phone to get a hold of the Highway Patrol Dispatcher for assistance.  If you do not have a cellular phone and need to get out of your car to do maintenance or walk somewhere for help, stay out off of the highway and do not cross the highway.

Crossing a highway is extremely dangerous.  The reaction time of a driver while driving at such high speeds is about 0.68 seconds and the breaks take about the same amount of time to work.  Other personal factors could contribute to how long it takes and driver to react, such a drowsiness, distraction, or drug and alcohol use.

If you or a loved one has been hit by a car as a pedestrian, the Kansas City Auto Accident Attorneys may be able to assist you.  Call 816-471-5111 for a free consultation or “Just Ask”.

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