11-Year-Old Boy Severely Injured in Moped Collision

News Summary

An 11-year-old boy suffered severe injuries after being struck by a vehicle while riding his moped in Colleton County, S.C. The collision occurred at the intersection of Foxfield Road and Fourth Street, throwing the boy approximately 30 feet into a ditch. Emergency responders airlifted him to Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital for treatment, where he remains hospitalized. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the incident, focusing on traffic safety at intersections, especially involving young riders.

Colleton County, S.C. – An 11-year-old boy sustained severe injuries after a collision involving his moped and a vehicle on Saturday afternoon at the intersection of Foxfield Road and Fourth Street. The accident occurred around 3:58 p.m. when the young boy, who was riding the moped, was struck on the side by a vehicle.

Witnesses reported that the impact was significant, causing the child to be thrown approximately 30 feet from the roadway into a nearby ditch. Following the collision, bystanders observed that the boy was unconscious. Emergency services were contacted immediately, and firefighter-paramedics arrived on the scene to provide urgent medical assistance.

Due to the severity of his injuries, a medical helicopter was requested to transport him to an appropriate medical facility for emergency care. He was subsequently flown to the Pediatric Trauma Center at Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital at MUSC in Charleston, where he remains hospitalized.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. They are currently gathering evidence and information from witnesses to understand how the collision occurred and to determine any potential factors that may have contributed to the accident.

Incident Details

The preliminary information indicates that the boy was legally riding the moped at the time of the collision. The vehicle that struck him, details about which remain under investigation, may have had traffic control factors to consider at the intersection. Further reports from the Highway Patrol may clarify these circumstances as the investigation progresses.

Witness Accounts

Several witnesses who were present during the accident recounted the chaotic scene that followed. Emergency responders worked swiftly to assist the injured boy, focusing their efforts on stabilizing him before his transport to the hospital. Witnesses stated that the immediate presence of paramedics was crucial in providing the necessary medical care at the scene.

Medical Response

The injured child was airlifted to a specialized trauma center, which is equipped to handle severe pediatric injuries. Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital at MUSC is known for its comprehensive care and treatment plans for young patients. Medical professionals at the facility are expected to provide both urgent and ongoing care as they assess the boy’s condition and prepare for further treatment protocols.

Community Concern

This tragic incident has raised concerns within the local community regarding safety at intersections and the shared road use between vehicles and pedestrians, particularly young riders. Authorities are expected to meet with community leaders to discuss potential measures that could prevent similar accidents in the future.

Background Information

This incident comes amidst ongoing discussions in Colleton County regarding traffic safety and infrastructure improvements. Previous events have highlighted the need for enhanced safety measures in areas frequented by pedestrians and cyclists. With the prevalence of mopeds and similar vehicles among youth, local officials may consider advocating for stricter regulations or educational campaigns aimed at promoting safe driving and riding practices.

As the investigation continues, more detailed findings from the South Carolina Highway Patrol will be released. Community leaders and residents are urged to remain patient as the authorities work to gather all necessary information to fully understand the events that led to this unfortunate accident.

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Additional Resources

• Count on 2 News: Boy Severely Injured after Moped Crash
• ABC News 4: Child Airlifted After Moped Crash
• ABC News 4: Moped Crash Incident Gallery
• Live 5 News: Moped Rider Killed in Crash
• Count on 2 News: Colleton County Car Fire Accident
• Wikipedia: Moped
• Google Search: Moped Accident Injury Statistics
• Google Scholar: Moped Safety Recommendations
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Moped
• Google News: Moped Crash Colleton County