On Sunday, April 28, around 7 p.m., a Piedmont student, while walking on campus, was struck by a vehicle.
The accident occurred outside of the Wallace dorm. The student was walking down the hill next to Wallace to the Commons when a vehicle turning left to go up the hill hit the student with their car.
An anonymous bystander stated, “The driver was turning left to go up the hill, and the student walking was walking on the edge. I think the stop sign just blocked the driver’s view of the student walking, or the driver wasn’t paying attention. But, if the driver had been going really fast, the student would’ve been hurt way worse. The driver was clearly upset, and the student hit was very shaken up. The student was put in the ambulance but seemed okay given the circumstances.”
Another anonymous bystander who called 911 said, “I was about to leave the cafe and saw everyone turning around as we heard a thud of the student hitting the ground. We went over and I called 911, and responders were there sooner than five minutes. I think Piedmont needs to widen the hill up to Purcell and/or put a sidewalk up to Purcell. Not every student on campus drives, so their only option is to walk, and now even that is too dangerous.”
More information will be provided once it’s known.
Here are some tips for driving safely on campus:
- Obey Speed Limits: Follow the posted speed limits on campus roads and parking lots. Speed limits are typically lower on college campuses to account for pedestrian traffic.
- Yield to Pedestrians: Pedestrians have the right of way on campus, so always yield to them at crosswalks and intersections.
- Stay Alert: Keep your attention focused on the road and be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles, especially in busy areas.
- Avoid Distractions: Put away distractions such as cell phones while driving. Texting can significantly impair your ability to react to hazards on the road.
- Use Turn Signals: Signal your intentions when turning or changing lanes to communicate with other drivers and pedestrians.
- Buckle Up: Always wear your seatbelt, and make sure all passengers do the same, even when traveling on campus. Seatbelts are essential for protecting yourself in the event of a collision.
- Watch for Pedestrian Zones: Be extra cautious in areas designated as pedestrian zones or wherever there is heavy foot traffic, such as near dorms or academic buildings.
