By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
A Great Bend woman is recovering from serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle Saturday morning while jogging in the 2200 block of McKinley Street. The accident occurred at approximately 6:10 a.m., and the driver, who was traveling southbound, told police he did not see the woman prior to the accident, nor did he know where she came from.
With more pedestrian traffic on the streets with the start of the school year and the peak of summer, Great Bend Chief of Police Steve Haulmark reminds pedestrians and drivers to exercise caution.
"GBPD will be conducting routine patrols and monitoring the traffic flow during drop-off and pick-up times, and maintaining a visible presence to support the school’s protocols," he said. "This is part of our ongoing commitment to student safety and community partnership."
Haulmark further reminds drivers to stay alert and exercise extra caution on the roads. Drivers are encouraged to slow down, take their time, and pay attention to school speed limits.
"Young people may not be as aware of their surroundings as they should be," Haulmark said. "Also, we will have new and inexperienced drivers on the road who may be excited to get to school and see their friends, so please watch for these folks and give them some grace."
Haulmark also encourages parents to have a conversation about these topics with their children, especially new drivers, with an emphasis to focus on the road and not their phones.
Visibility at night and in the morning is reduced, making it crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to be extra cautious.
"Drivers should reduce speed, stay alert for pedestrians, particularly in residential areas and around schools, or any other areas that might be poorly illuminated, and they should avoid distractions," said Haulmark.
Pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing, if possible, use crosswalks when available, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. Safety depends on awareness from both sides.