Authorities responded to reports of the collision at approximately 10:30 p.m. on February 14. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Mikaela Lee, a resident of Alice, was walking in the southbound lane of the highway when she was hit by a southbound vehicle. The driver did not stop at the scene and fled in an unknown direction.
The crash occurred about one mile south of Alfred in foggy and drizzling conditions on the 75 mph roadway. Prior to the accident, multiple calls had been made to the Jim Wells County Sheriff’s Office, with motorists reporting a pedestrian walking in and out of the roadway. Despite law enforcement being dispatched to the area, the collision happened before officers could intervene.
Lee was pronounced deceased at the scene by Jim Wells County Justice of the Peace McKenzie Chapa. At this time, authorities have not identified the driver or the type of vehicle involved. The Texas Highway Patrol’s Alice office continues to investigate.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mikaela Lee.
Pedestrian Accidents in Texas
Pedestrian accidents remain a serious concern across Texas, with thousands of people injured or killed each year. In 2022 alone, the Texas Department of Transportation reported over 5,000 pedestrian crashes statewide, resulting in more than 800 fatalities. Factors such as speeding, poor visibility, and driver inattention often contribute to these tragic incidents.
There are several factors that frequently lead to pedestrian accidents. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Hit-and-Run Incidents: Some drivers flee the scene out of fear of legal consequences, leaving injured victims without immediate medical attention. These cases can be challenging to solve, especially without eyewitnesses or surveillance footage.
- Poor Visibility Conditions: Low-light conditions, fog, and rain can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, especially in areas without proper street lighting. Visibility issues are a common factor in nighttime pedestrian accidents.
- Speeding Vehicles: Speeding increases the risk of fatal pedestrian accidents, as drivers have less time to react and collisions occur with greater force. High-speed roadways can be especially dangerous for those on foot.
- Failure to Yield to Pedestrians: Many pedestrian accidents occur at intersections and crosswalks when drivers fail to yield. In some cases, pedestrians may also be forced to walk along roadways that lack sidewalks, putting them at greater risk.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important to speak with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible. A skilled legal advocate can help you understand your options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Our Jim Wells County wrongful death lawyer at The Law Office of Joe Brad Brock is here to assist you and yours in the aftermath of a deadly crash. Seeking legal representation early can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive the support you need following the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one in a crash. Our experienced attorney can investigate the circumstances of your accident, identify liable parties, and work to secure financial recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
At The Law Office of Joe Brad Brock, we understand the challenges that families face after tragic accidents. If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian crash, our team is ready to support you through this difficult time. We offer compassionate and dedicated legal representation to help you seek justice. Call us today at (361) 884-1086 for a free consultation. Let us help you explore your legal options and take the next steps toward recovery.
