Whether you are behind the wheel or taking a walk on a busy street, consuming alcohol or drugs can severely impair your reaction time and judgment. A recent auto accident in Knoxville shows the possible dangers of such intoxication. There could be serious consequences for both the driver and the pedestrian.
Police say a 53-year-old pedestrian was injured when he was struck by a vehicle in the center turn lane of Kingston Pike near its intersection with Newcom Drive on Wednesday evening. The pedestrian had apparently bought some items at a store and was returning home.
The Knoxville News Sentinel reports that the man was struck by a 1987 Chevrolet Camaro driven by a 27-year-old man when he maneuvered into the turn lane to turn into a restaurant parking lot.
The pedestrian was taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. His condition after the accident was not reported.
Police are saying they believe drugs and alcohol may have been factors in the crash. It’s possible that both the driver and the pedestrian had consumed alcohol or drugs prior to the accident. The investigation is ongoing.
After the accident, blood samples were taken from both men to determine whether they were impaired at the time of the crash. It’s possible that charges could be brought thereafter.
There are many factors that can cause car/pedestrian accidents, such as weather conditions, bad lighting and unexpected traffic. Adding alcohol into the mix increases the odds that a crash could occur.
Source: Knoxville News Sentinel, “Drunk driver? Drunk pedestrian? Impairment an issue in W. Knox collision,” Don Jacobs, Dec. 8, 2011