Man in hospital after being struck by car in Whitehaven, MPD says

Sep 14, 2024 at 2:26 AM

Pedestrian Struck in Whitehaven Accident: Authorities Investigate Circumstances

In a concerning incident, a man was severely injured after being hit by a car in the Whitehaven neighborhood of Memphis, Tennessee. The Memphis Police Department (MPD) received a call just before 7:15 PM on Friday evening, reporting the collision at the intersection of East Shelby Drive and Elvis Presley Boulevard.

Authorities Respond Swiftly to Serious Accident

Victim Transported to Hospital with Serious Injuries

According to the MPD, officers arrived at the scene and found the injured man, who was then transported to a nearby hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle involved in the collision remained at the scene, cooperating with the authorities as they investigated the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Intersection Known for Heavy Traffic and Pedestrian Activity

The intersection of East Shelby Drive and Elvis Presley Boulevard is a busy area, known for its high volume of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Residents in the Whitehaven community have long expressed concerns about the safety of this intersection, citing the potential for accidents due to the heavy flow of traffic and the presence of numerous businesses and attractions that draw in pedestrians.

Authorities Urge Caution and Vigilance from Drivers and Pedestrians

In the wake of this incident, the MPD has emphasized the importance of increased caution and vigilance from both drivers and pedestrians in the Whitehaven area. Authorities have urged motorists to adhere to all traffic laws, maintain a heightened awareness of their surroundings, and be prepared to react quickly to any potential hazards. Similarly, pedestrians have been advised to exercise extreme caution when crossing streets, use designated crosswalks whenever possible, and remain alert to the movements of nearby vehicles.

Ongoing Investigation to Determine Cause and Liability

The MPD is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, including reviewing any available surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing the physical evidence at the scene. The goal is to determine the exact cause of the collision and identify any potential contributing factors, such as distracted driving, speeding, or pedestrian error. Once the investigation is complete, the authorities will determine if any charges or citations will be issued.

Community Calls for Improved Safety Measures at Intersection

The incident has reignited concerns within the Whitehaven community about the need for enhanced safety measures at the intersection of East Shelby Drive and Elvis Presley Boulevard. Residents have called for the implementation of additional traffic signals, pedestrian crosswalks, and other infrastructure improvements to help mitigate the risk of future accidents and protect both drivers and pedestrians.

Ongoing Efforts to Promote Road Safety in Memphis

The City of Memphis and the MPD have been actively working to address road safety concerns throughout the city, with a particular focus on high-traffic areas and intersections known for a history of accidents. This includes initiatives such as increased enforcement of traffic laws, public awareness campaigns, and the implementation of various engineering solutions to improve the safety of the city's roads and intersections.