The Tribune

BY DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT - A woman was seriously injured yesterday after being struck by a car while on a pedestrian crossing.

The victim, who has not been identified but is believed to be in her 40s, suffered a severe head injury.

She was attended at the scene by Dr Michael Darville, whose medical clinic is nearby.

Witnesses say the incident took place around 8.30am at the pedestrian crossing on Pioneer's Way, near the Savoy Building.

The victim was said to be crossing the street on her way to work when she was struck by a white car.

According to witnesses, the victim was conscious but bleeding heavily from the head.

A large crowd gathered immediately and Dr Michael Darville was on the scene soon after.

"I ran outside after hearing the commotion and saw the victim lying in the drain close to the pedestrian crossing," he said.

Dr Darville said the victim was badly hurt, but awake.

"There were no signs of broken limbs, but there were extensive head injuries," he said.

"There was also an excessive amount of blood and scalp injuries, but we were able to apply a compress bandage and reduce the swelling and bleeding at the scene before the ambulance came."

The woman was rushed to the Rand Memorial Hospital. She was listed in serious condition last night.

Road Traffic chief Basil Rahming said his department is concerned about the recent number of accidents and "near misses" at pedestrian crossings and in school zones.

He noted that cars must stop for pedestrians at all crossings, as those on foot have the right of way.

But, the former police assistant superintendent also stressed, pedestrians must make sure traffic has come to a complete stop before they step onto a crossing.

Last week, two students were hit by a car while crossing the street. A two-year-old was also struck by a car in Eight Mile Rock.