Nephew of Dalai Lama Killed in Palm Coast Pedestrian Accident
The Florida Times-Union reports that the nephew of the Dalai Lama was struck and killed by an SUV as he walked alone on a dark portion of two-lane State Highway A1A in Palm Coast, on Monday, February 14. Jigme K. Norbu, 45, from Bloomington, Indiana, was entering the first leg of his 300-mile “Walk for Tibet Florida” in support of Tibet’s independence from China. Friends and supporters joined him earlier in the day, but as darkness fell they left for a nearby restaurant, while Norbu stayed to finish the last two miles.
The SUV driver said he swerved to try and avoid hitting Norbu, who was walking along the white line on the side of the highway, heading south with traffic. Charges are not expected to be filed.
Norbu had reportedly logged about 7,800 miles, both walking and biking, to publicize Tibet’s fight for freedom from China. It has been almost 52 years since Tibet failed in its rebellion against Chinese rule that led to the exile of the Dalai Lama, the top spiritual leader of Tibet.
Florida Pedestrian Dangers
Flagler County (Palm Coast) saw one pedestrian fatality in 2009, down from 4 in 2008. However, while there were 19 pedestrian injuries in 2008, that number rose dramatically to 29 pedestrian injuries in 2009, according to state statistics.
A recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Association found that Florida was one of eight states that experienced an increase in pedestrian fatalities by at least 10 deaths. Other states with increases include Arizona, Oklahoma, Oregon and North Carolina. California, New York, and Texas all experienced a decline in pedestrian deaths.
Our condolences go out to the Dalai Lama’;s family for this man’;s tragic passing.
When a pedestrian is injured or killed by an automobile, it is essential that a Florida pedestrian accident lawyer be able to work with accident investigators to preserve the evidence and talk to witnesses immediately following the collision. Call Farah & Farah for a complimentary consultation on your accident, but remember time is of the essence.
