Vehicle struck pedestrian crossing near Sunshine Street
March 08, 2026 | Springfield, MO
A 71-year-old pedestrian lost his life in a collision with a vehicle on National Avenue near Sunshine Street.
Daniel Hyden, 71, died after being struck by a Honda Accord while crossing National Avenue near Sunshine Street in Springfield.
What Happened in the Crash?
Springfield police reported that Daniel Hyden was crossing National Avenue from west to east around 8:30 p.m. on a Saturday when a northbound Honda Accord struck him. The driver, a 21-year-old local resident, was involved in the incident.
- Victim: Daniel Hyden, 71, of Springfield
- Location: National Avenue near Sunshine Street
- Vehicle: Honda Accord, northbound
- Time: Approximately 8:30 p.m.
- Outcome: Hyden was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal pedestrian accident.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian safety remains a pressing concern across the United States, with rising fatalities highlighting the need for vigilance from drivers and improved infrastructure.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian deaths reached 6,721 in 2020, marking a 4.8% increase from the 6,412 recorded in 2019. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) further underscores that motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury-related deaths.
Year |
Pedestrian Deaths |
Change from Previous Year |
Source |
|---|
2019 |
6,412 |
Not Available |
GHSA |
2020 |
6,721 |
+4.8% |
GHSA |
Factors contributing to such incidents often include:
- Poor visibility due to lighting or weather
- Distracted driving
- Inadequate road signage or crosswalks
- High vehicle speeds in urban areas
Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes
In cases such as this, thorough investigations play a crucial role in understanding the fault and supporting affected families.
“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.
Bond emphasized the importance of independent investigations to protect victims' rights.
Key takeaways:
- Drivers must yield to pedestrians at all times.
- Road conditions, signage, and lighting should be examined closely.
- Experienced legal guidance helps prove negligence and secure justice.
Can Families Pursue a Wrongful Death Claim?
Following a tragic loss like this, families may explore options for compensation covering funeral expenses, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”
Pending investigation results, the family of Daniel Hyden could be eligible for such a claim.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).