News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
As holiday shopping begins, it is important to remember basic safety precautions when navigating parking lots.
In Fairfield Glade Thursday, an 85-year-old resident was hit by a car that was backing up out of a parking stall. Police Chief Michael Williams said each November and December the department sees a slight increase in parking lot accidents.
“We need to take the time and stay in our lane,” Williams said. “Avoid cutting across parking lots. We still need to drive slowly and use those directional signals to let people know what we are doing. I think most importantly is anticipate the action of others.”
The resident was transported to Cumberland Medical Center by EMS with minor injuries. Williams said while in commercial lots, do not use your cell phone, check both directions for traffic and always watch for children.
“Tennessee law forbids you from even holding your phone while driving, and that applies to private parking lots, as well.” Williams said. “You need to be sure that you are paying more attention, because pedestrains, especially small children this time of year, can dart out in front of you.”
Williams said in any accident in a parking lot, immediately call 9-11. While waiting for an emergency response and the person was hit by a car, protect that individual from other traffic and try to provide aid.
Fairfield Glade Police Department responded to the accident at Food City located at 141 Towne Center Drive Thursday morning.
