The Tragic Incident of Bridget Driscoll: August 17, 1896

On August 17, 1896, Bridget Driscoll became the first recorded pedestrian to be killed by a motor vehicle in the United Kingdom. The incident occurred in Crystal Palace, London, marking a significant moment in the history of automobile safety.

The Event

Bridget Driscoll was struck by a car owned by the Anglo-French Motor Carriage Company, which was conducting demonstration drives in the area. The vehicle, driven by Arthur Edsall, was reported to be traveling at approximately 4 miles per hour, a speed at which witnesses at the time claimed to be both faster and reckless for such early motor vehicles.

Investigation and Aftermath

An inquest was held to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident. The jury returned a verdict of “accidental death.” The coroner, Percy Morrison, remarked that he hoped such a thing would never happen again. The jury also examined the operational aspects and speed of the vehicle.

Historical Impact

The death of Bridget Driscoll highlighted the nascent stages of automobile safety concerns and regulations in an era where motor vehicles were a novel technology. Her tragic death contributed to the burgeoning discussions around traffic regulations, pedestrian safety, and the safe operation of automobiles, which would later lead to the development of more comprehensive traffic laws and vehicle safety standards in the 20th century.

This incident stands as a reminder of the evolving relationship between society and technology, underlining the importance of prioritizing safety in technological advancement.