We often are reminded about the fragility of human life, but perhaps never more so than in the case of accidental deaths.

This week, Dayton teenager Kalie Mosgrove was killed when a van driven by her mother was hit by a truck on Highway 18 near Ash Road. Kalie’s mother, Connie, was seriously injured. We can’t help but wonder how many lives were changed in that one tragic instant.

Certainly, her family will mourn Kalie’s loss forever. The truck driver and his family will be affected as well. So will her friends, her classmates and teachers. Even the emergency responders at the scene, many of whom have seen much death and injury on the roads, are not immune to the tragic aftermath of these events.

Just three months ago, 16-year-old Heather Ann Snyder was killed and her father critically injured on the same dangerous stretch of road. Commentary on Page 4 of this section urges local pressure on the Oregon Department of Transportation to improve safety conditions in that area.

It isn’t just highway accidents that remind us of our own mortality.

This week in McMinnville, two pedestrians were hit by vehicles only 12 hours apart. Thirteen-year-old Angelica Bercier was struck by a car driven by 16-year-old Brigitte Hodgson near Northeast Fourth and Johnson streets. Before sunrise the next morning, Elena Ramirez was struck at Northeast Baker and Second streets by driver Guillermo DeLatorre-Padilla.

Bercier, whose injuries are not considered life-threatening, was transported to Willamette Valley Medical Center. Ramirez reportedly is in good condition at Oregon Health Sciences University.

The victims and their families have long roads ahead after these life-changing experiences. The drivers and those close to them will face their own challenges. The physical and emotional damage can be devastating for years, even a lifetime.

Kalie Mosgrove and Heather Ann Snyder cannot come back. Their families must become their voices now. They, along with the survivors of highway or pedestrian accidents, their families and caregivers, even the witnesses, must speak up with cautionary advice.

Take an extra second — make absolutely sure — before stepping off a curb or stepping on the gas. Although accidents can happen any time of day, pay special attention at night or during inclement weather. Keep your mind focused on the potential roadway dangers around you.

Please be careful. Life can change in an instant.