Smith Township, OH (April 4, 2024) – Officials in Smith Township responded to the scene of a deadly pedestrian crash in Smith Township on Wednesday night, April 3rd. The crash happened around 8:50 p.m. on Alliance-Sebring Road, near Oyster Road.
Police say that 48-year-old Catherine Ruggly was walking eastbound on Alliance-Sebring Road when she was hit by an SUV that was also traveling east. The driver of the SUV briefly stopped before fleeing the scene of the collision. Ruggly was taken to Aultman Hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries. There is no additional information on the driver or a description of the vehicle at this time. The Smith Township Police Department is investigating the crash. There is no further information available.
We would like to offer our condolences to the family of Catherine Ruggly following this deadly Smith Township pedestrian accident.
Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Ohio 
The Ohio Department of Public Safety compiles and maintains statistics regarding pedestrian accidents that take place across the state. According to recent statistics, nearly 15,000 pedestrian accidents happened between 2017 and 2022, for an average of approximately 3,000 pedestrian-related collisions per year. During this same time period, 847 pedestrians lost their lives. 2021 saw the highest number of pedestrian fatalities with 147 reported deaths.
A pedestrian crash is highly likely to result in serious injuries or even death. While a crash involving two vehicles has about a 30% chance of leading to injuries, a pedestrian accident has a greater than 80% chance of injuries. In most cases, pedestrians have little opportunity to avoid the impact of the accident. Drivers are often at fault in these collisions and pedestrian accidents occur for the following reasons:
- Driver distraction
- Impairment
- Speeding
- Failing to yield at crosswalks and intersections
Being involved in a pedestrian crash can have major consequences and negative results, both physically and financially. Due to the serious injuries that are sustained, victims often incur a great deal of medical bills. In cases of fatal accidents, there are additional costs, such as funeral and burial expenses. These costs may be recouped in certain situations, however, it is necessary to have an attorney assisting you during each step of the process.
At Attkisson Law Firm, we provide thorough and zealous representation to our clients. Our team of dedicated lawyers and legal professionals will be by your side at all times. We know that this is a difficult time and we are here to help you achieve justice for yourself and your family.
Our firm is standing by to speak with you now. You may have a limited time to act following the collision so it is important tor reach out to us as soon as possible. We provide free consultations and case evaluations for all potential and prospective clients. There is no fee until we obtain a recovery. To schedule at time to speak with a Smith Township pedestrian accident attorney, please give us a call at (937) 632-1175.
Note: Our team of writers utilizes a variety of external sources to gather information to produce this post. These sources range from news outlet reports and local and state police reports to social media posts, eyewitness accounts, and other relevant data concerning accidents in Dayton and throughout Ohio. While we strive for accuracy, we do not independently verify the facts surrounding these injury accidents. If you discover any inaccuracies in our reports, please inform us immediately. We are committed to correcting errors -promptly. Additionally, we will consider removing a story if requested.
Disclaimer: For many years, the attorneys at Attkisson Law Firm have dedicated themselves to assisting injured accident victims and their families throughout Ohio. We want to encourage everyone to slow down and operate motor vehicles with caution. Please note this post is not an attempt to solicit business. The information provided herein should not be considered medical or legal advice. Additionally, the photograph accompanying this post was not taken at the accident scene.
