On May 2, 2024, multiple units responded to a vehicle vs pedestrian collision. The accident occurred at 600 6TH ST SE, WINTER HAVEN, FL.
The following units were dispatched at 2:02 pm: MR218, WHBC1, WHEN5.
A female student was struck by a vehicle. An ambulance arrived on the scene, but the patient and her mother refused transport.
The student who was struck is OK, but this is one of several students that have been hit over the last several months in Polk County.
Other recent Polk County student pedestrian accident incidents:
Last year in February: 13-year-old middle schooler struck & killed in the early morning hours while waiting at Lake Wales bus stop.
Last year in October: WHHS student struck by vehicle during the morning hours, suffering minor injuries.
Last year in December: student hit and killed by a school bus while riding his bike to school in Lakeland.
March of this year: 18-year-old struck and killed by driver who was involved in fleeing the scene of a crash, where the driver then hit the teenager near Bartow High School.
April of this year: 6-year- old child hit by vehicle while exiting school bus in Haines City. The driver was reportedly drunk. No major injuries.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics AAP, 16% of kids killed in traffic collisions are actually pedestrians. (Statistics from June 2023)
Reminder to those who operate vehicles – use caution and always drive the posted speed limit when around school zones or bus stops.
Reminder to those who walk – always look both ways before crossing the street. Use intended crosswalks and sidewalks.
Be safe on the roads out there. Always stay vigilant.
