Pedestrian Hit By Snowplow in Silver Spring

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SILVER SPRING, MD — A man walking along Georgia Avenue at Janet Road was hit by a snowplow Monday night in Silver Spring, according to a Montgomery County emergency official.

Fire and Rescue Spokesman Pete Piringer said the man was taken to an area hospital with injuries that are not life threatening.

The incident prompted a plea from the department for pedestrians to stay out of streets, even if sidewalks and intersections aren’t shoveled. Snow piles can make navigating streets and intersections dangerous for pedestrians and drivers.

Drivers should take extra care when turning corners with snow piles that may limit visibility, the department said in its blog.

Post-blizzard conditions can mean increased risk for pedestrians as they bundle up in hats, hoods, earmuffs and scarves, which can hamper their ability to see and hear traffic.

Emergency officials suggest:

• Make sure your peripheral vision is clear and pay attention.
• Do not be distracted by cell phones.
• Pedestrians should wear brightly colored clothing so drivers can see you, especially in times of poor visibility, and use reflective clothing or stickers for maximum visibility.

»Photos of snow-filled intersections that pose a risk to pedestrians, courtesy of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services