Pedestrian Safety Concerns Rise in Germantown After Recent Accidents
A Germantown intersection is raising alarm for pedestrian and bicyclist safety following an Aug. 16 hit-and-run incident involving a woman riding her bike.
Authorities stated the 22-year-old was struck by a black, four-door SUV at 5:30 p.m. on 3rd Avenue near Van Buren Street. She suffered non-life threatening injuries and was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Investigators reported a lack of camera footage of the incident.
This crash marks the second significant accident in the area since June. On June 8, 77-year-old Dorothy “Dot” Dobbins was killed by a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck driven by country music singer Conner Smith. Smith received a misdemeanor citation related to Dobbins' death.
In response to Dobbins' accident, community members organized efforts to enhance pedestrian safety, including spending hours at crosswalks to escort pedestrians and raise awareness. Following the incident, new signs were installed to improve crosswalk visibility, and obstructive foliage was cleared.
Metro Council Member Jacob Kupin acknowledged ongoing advocacy for improved safety measures in the area. Proposals include repainting crosswalks and adding a traffic light at the intersection.
The investigation into the Aug. 16 incident is ongoing, with further discussions regarding safety improvements in Germantown expected.
As reported by The Tennessean.