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The woman struck by a car and killed while trying to cross Highway 98 in Destin has been identified as 40-year old Margaret Beck of Lake Charles Louisiana.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the fatal accident which took place shortly after 3 a.m. as Beck was walking south across the eastbound lanes of Harbor Boulevard near Stahlman Avenue.
The driver of the vehicle stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
Beck is the third person to be hit by a car while crossing the roadway in that area in the last month.
Other pedestrian accidents took place at 3:45 a.m. on May 7th and 7:50 p.m. June 3rd. Both of those individuals suffered life-threatening injuries and one remains in critical condition.
The OCSO is cautioning motorists and pedestrians alike to use extreme caution along Highway 98 in the Destin area, especially just east of the Marler Bridge, where there are many entertainment venues and restaurants along with a heavy pedestrian presence.
The OCSO Crime Prevention Unit has also provided the following Pedestrian Safety Tips:
*Cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections if possible.
*Obey traffic signals such as WALK/DON’TWALK signs.
*Cross the street in a well-lit area at night.
*Watch for turning vehicles. Make sure drivers sees you and will stop for you.
*Don’t wear headphones or talk on a cell phone while crossing.
*Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
*Stay sober; walking while impaired increases your chances of struck.
*Don’t rely solely on pedestrian signals. Look before you cross the road.
*Be alert to engine noise or backup lights on cars when in parking lots.
*Stand clear of busses, hedges, parked cars, or other obstacles before crossing.
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