Valley Grandmother Killed after Driver Jumps Curb

Police have released new information about a Valley grandmother who was killed on Monday night while out for a walk.

Originally, Phoenix police said that Jody Barnett, 60, and a friend were attempting to cross the street outside of the crosswalk, while pushing Barnetts three-year-old granddaughter in a stroller.

Witnesses also said that the woman was struck by a Jeep that she did not see and that many people tend to cross the street in that area without paying attention.

However, after investigating the collision, police told CBS 5 that they believe the family was walking along the sidewalk when the driver of the Jeep jumped the curb and struck the grandmother and her friend; the stroller was pushed away by a passerby and the child escaped injury.

According to police there was physical evidence from the collision scene that suggested the vehicle left the roadway. However, police have noted that the driver did stay at the scene and there were no signs of impairment.

Police are currently investigating if the driver may have been distracted at the time of the accident. The driver could face criminal charges if it is found that he was on his cellphone just before the crash.

Since 2011, the number of pedestrian accidents reported throughout Arizona have steadily increased. In fact, Arizona is considered the ninth worst state for pedestrians while neighboring state New Mexico is considered the second worst.

In 2013, more than 150 pedestrians were wrongfully killed in a pedestrian collision.

At Phillips Law Group, our reputable Phoenix injury attorneys believe in standing up for the rights of the injured and helping families who have lost a loved one due the careless actions of another person. An auto accident attorney from our firm can help you obtain the compensation you deserve whether it is through filing a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit.

For a free review of your claim, call 1-800-706-3000 or fill out our Free Case Review.