A William and Mary student was hit by a car while crossing the street on Monday, September 12th. The student, who has not been identified, was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
The accident occurred at around 10:30 p.m. in the 1400 block of Richmond Road. The student was crossing the street in a crosswalk when they were struck by a car traveling eastbound.
The driver of the car, who also has not been identified, remained at the scene of the accident and is cooperating with police.
The William and Mary Police Department is investigating the accident.
Pedestrian Safety on Richmond Road
The accident occurred on a stretch of Richmond Road that has been the site of several pedestrian accidents in recent years. In 2020, there were three pedestrian accidents on Richmond Road, including one that resulted in a fatality.
The William and Mary Police Department has taken steps to improve pedestrian safety on Richmond Road, including increasing police patrols and installing new crosswalks. However, more needs to be done to make the road safer for pedestrians.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
Here are some tips for pedestrians to stay safe when crossing the street:
- Always cross at a crosswalk.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t walk while distracted.
- Wear bright clothing or reflective gear at night.
What to Do If You’re Hit by a Car
If you are hit by a car, it is important to:
- Stay calm and call 911.
- Get the driver’s name, contact information, and insurance information.
- Take pictures of the accident scene.
- Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you are injured.
Support for Students Involved in Car Accidents
William and Mary provides support for students who have been involved in car accidents. The university’s Counseling Center offers counseling and support services to students who are dealing with the physical and emotional trauma of a car accident. The university’s Office of Student Affairs can also provide students with financial assistance and other resources.
Conclusion
The William and Mary student who was hit by a car is fortunate to have survived. However, this accident is a reminder that pedestrian safety is a serious problem on Richmond Road. More needs to be done to make the road safer for pedestrians.
Additional Information
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that there were 5,977 pedestrian fatalities in the United States in 2020.
- Pedestrians are more likely to be killed in a car accident than any other type of road user.
- The risk of being hit by a car is highest at night and in urban areas.