A woman on a scooter was killed by a car on Sunday. Police say she was crossing McCarran Boulevard while oncoming traffic had the green light.
The Reno Police Department is reminding everyone on the roads to use streets and sidewalks safely. This comes amid multiple incidents involving people hit by cars.
A five-year-old is in the hospital with life-threatening injuries after being hit by a car Monday evening at Ninth Street and Dolomite Circle, north of the Spaghetti Bowl. Police are seeking tips to find the driver, who fled the scene, and a reward is being offered.
On Sunday, an 18-year-old woman on a scooter died at the intersection of Mae Anne Avenue and McCarran Boulevard after a car hit her.
Sam Gugino saw it happen and says it was a surreal experience.
"Being in the driver's seat, I saw all parts of it,” he says. “I was looking around the road, and I saw them almost get hit earlier. I pointed that out to my roommates in the car. And then, when I actually saw the collision, I saw both parties coming."
Reno Police say the woman crossed the street with a group of people while oncoming traffic had the green light.
Officers and neighbors alike are asking people not to rush at road crossings.
"Getting somewhere quicker is not worth it compared to the potential harm and potential damage that come with jaywalking or with making a bad decision,” Gugino says.
Next Monday, August 24, is the first day of the fall semester at the University. People can expect many more scooters running through the area. Police are urging those riders to keep off the sidewalks and use bike lanes or shared paths where available.
“Scooters or bicycles that are going to be going anywhere between 10 and 15 miles an hour when the average pedestrian is walking at three miles an hour,” says Sergeant Adam Blount with the Traffic Division of the Reno Police Department. “We don't want those collisions. We don't want people getting hurt."
Much like driving a car, you need to be in a clear state of mind and sober while on a scooter. Riders and pedestrians need to be predictable and visible, avoiding sudden movements and darker clothing, especially at night.
Mark Williams recently moved here from Fort Worth, Texas, and says the sidewalks here are much safer. He appreciates when there are flashing beacons at crosswalks, and it's noticeable when they're not there.
“I've had to slam on my brakes a few times because I didn't see the pedestrian at night or the person in front of me saw the pedestrian in the sidewalk or crosswalk at the last minute,” Williams says.
If you notice a safety hazard, such as an uneven sidewalk or faded road markings, you can call Reno Direct at (775) 334-4636. The line is active Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can also file a report online.
