Pedestrian in Motorized Wheelchair Struck by Vehicle

The driver was cited for Failing to Yield to a Pedestrian in an Unmarked Crosswalk.

Salem-News.com

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - McMinnville Police and Fire Department paramedics responded to a reported motor vehicle crash Wednesday afternoon that involved a pedestrian in a motorized wheelchair being struck by a motor vehicle.

McMinnville Police Chief Ron Noble says the crash occurred in McMinnville at the intersection of NE 4th Street and NE Evans Street at 3:48 p.m.

Investigators determined that the pedestrian on the motorized wheelchair, 80-year old Joseph Brock of McMinnville, was crossing NE Evans Street within an unmarked crosswalk at the intersection when he was hit.

Noble says the driver of the motor vehicle, 36-year old Margo McGivney of Salem, was making a left turn from a stop sign on 4th Street onto Evans Street.

"McGivney stated that she didn't see Brock in his wheelchair until the collision was unavoidable," he said, adding that McGivney was driving a 1999 Dodge Caravan.

Brock was transported to the Willamette Valley Medical Center via ambulance for minor injuries. McGivney was not injured.

McGivney was cited for Failing to Yield to a Pedestrian in an Unmarked Crosswalk, which carries a maximum fine of $278.

Noble says McMinnville Police want to remind drivers that under Oregon law, there is a pedestrian crosswalk at every intersection whether or not lines are painted upon the roadway, and to always be on the lookout for persons crossing the street at any location.