Man struck by one vehicle then hit again while in traffic lane
April 25, 2026 | Tulsa, OK
A 59-year-old pedestrian lost his life after being struck by two vehicles on Interstate 244 late Saturday evening.
Monte Barnett, 59, died after being struck by two vehicles while in a traffic lane on Interstate 244 in Tulsa.
What Happened in the Crash?
Monte Barnett was walking on Interstate 244 when he was first hit by a vehicle around 9 p.m. The collision left him in the lane, where a second vehicle struck him, leading to fatal injuries.
- Victim: Monte Barnett, 59
- Location: Interstate 244, Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Time: Approximately 9 p.m. on April 25
- Vehicles Involved: Two separate vehicles
- Investigating Agency: Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP)
- Outcome: Barnett succumbed to injuries at the scene
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian crashes often stem from driver negligence, poor visibility, or inadequate road conditions. In Oklahoma, these incidents have surged, highlighting the need for thorough investigations.
According to data from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), pedestrian fatalities nationwide have increased significantly in recent years.
Year |
Pedestrian Fatalities in Oklahoma |
National Trend (FHWA Data) |
|---|
2012 |
71 |
Baseline increase noted |
2021 |
115 |
63% rise since 2012 |
Recent |
High of 41 years |
Continued upward trend |
Source: Oklahoma Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessment and FHWA reports
Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes
National legal analysts emphasize the importance of independent investigations in pedestrian incidents to establish negligence and support families.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst with Newsline. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.” — In cases such as this.
Key takeaways from analyst perspectives:
- Independent investigations protect victims' families by uncovering hidden factors like lighting or signage.
- Negligence often plays a central role in motor vehicle crashes involving pedestrians.
- Thorough examinations ensure accountability and fair compensation for losses.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
The family of Monte Barnett may pursue a wrongful death claim to seek damages for companionship loss, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
“We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.” — In cases such as this.
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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).