Following the identification of a dozen sections of Loop 12 as some of the most perilous locations for traffic fatalities and severe injuries in Dallas, a man whose sister fell victim to a fatal accident on the same roadway is urging leaders to take immediate action to prevent further loss of life.
The tragic incident occurred on a segment of Loop 12 where five pedestrians have tragically lost their lives in just 11 months, according to records from TxDOT reviewed by NBC 5 Investigates.
A comprehensive study conducted by the City of Dallas in 2022 revealed that the 12 most hazardous road sections for fatal and severe accidents were all situated on Loop 12. By mapping out these locations, NBC 5 Investigates uncovered a concerning pattern of fatalities and injuries. TxDOT crash data highlighted at least 479 incidents resulting in severe injuries and 105 fatal crashes on Loop 12 within a span of less than five years, a more comprehensive dataset than what the city analyzed in its 2022 study.
Loop 12, encircling Dallas, assumes various names. Moving north from Interstate 30, it transitions from Buckner Boulevard to Northwest Highway, skirting Dallas Love Field Airport. After crossing Interstate 35E, it briefly extends into Irving as Walton Walker Boulevard before heading south as a freeway. South of I-30, Loop 12 diverges into Ledbetter Drive before later transforming into Great Trinity Forest Way.
One particular stretch of Loop 12, where Ledbetter transforms into Great Trinity Forest, has become a site of recurring pedestrian fatalities. It was there that Arthur Fleming’s sister tragically lost her life, prompting the Fleming family to demand collaborative efforts from the city and state to enhance safety measures, particularly along Ledbetter.
“I’m committed to ensuring that the tragedies in this area come to an end,” stated Fleming, reflecting on the loss of his sister Betty Sue Fleming, who was fatally struck along the 2800 block of Ledbetter Drive while crossing the street to reach a store on a November evening.
Betty Sue’s demise marked the fifth pedestrian fatality in just 11 months along the Ledbetter stretch near Bonnie View Road. TxDOT records further revealed that over the past decade, 11 pedestrians lost their lives within a mile of the site where Betty Sue was struck.
According to a police report, Betty Sue was deemed responsible for the accident as she was not using a designated crosswalk. However, road safety advocates argue that such attributions often overlook critical questions about the safety infrastructure in place for pedestrians.
David Zipper, an urban planner specializing in transportation policy and road safety, underscored the crucial role of road design in preventing pedestrian accidents. He observed a lack of mid-block crosswalks near bus stops, apartment complexes, and stores along Loop 12, leaving pedestrians with limited safe crossing options.
Arthur Fleming expressed frustration over the lack of prompt action to address the safety concerns plaguing Loop 12. He called for heightened urgency in implementing safety measures to protect pedestrians, emphasizing the need for collaboration between the city, state, and transportation authorities.
TxDOT acknowledged ongoing efforts to enhance pedestrian safety along Loop 12, citing investments in infrastructure upgrades and collaborative initiatives with local agencies. However, Fleming believes that more proactive measures are necessary to address the pressing safety issues affecting Southern Dallas residents.
With concerns mounting over speeding vehicles and pedestrian fatalities, Fleming is determined to mobilize community support and advocate for comprehensive safety reforms. In response, the city’s transportation department affirmed its commitment to evaluating improvement opportunities in partnership with relevant agencies.
As discussions on safety enhancements continue, Fleming remains resolute in his pursuit of tangible changes to safeguard pedestrians and prevent further tragedies along Loop 12.
