Throughout time, roadways change in Katy and neighboring cities. New signs, new traffic signals and the occasional detour are just a few of the changes that can cause auto accidents when drivers are not paying attention to the road. Changes made around school grounds and play grounds can be especially dangerous as children often congregate in these areas. On Dec. 2, a Kilpatrick Elementary student was hit by a car while crossing the street in such an area.

Because of the incident, school district officials are now asking that drivers be more careful and that they be aware of the new traffic lights in the area. According to school officials, the student did not sustain life-threatening injuries in the auto accident incident. They did not say what the child's injuries were at the time.

The accident occurred as a driver was turning right at an intersection with a green light. At this intersection, turning traffic is required to yield to pedestrians. A Katy school crossing guard was holding traffic to allow students to cross in the crosswalk. It is not known why the driver proceeded into the occupied crosswalk. It is also not known if any charges were filed against the driver of the vehicle in regards to the car accident.

Parent and guardians expect their children to be safe when crossing the streets with a crossing guard on duty. These individuals are there to help protect children and other pedestrians who have as much right to the roadway as any driver. Drivers have an obligation to maintain awareness of their surroundings and this is especially true when driving in areas where children are walking or playing.

Source: The Katy Times, "Student struck by car at crosswalk; drivers asked to use caution," Tracy Dang, Dec. 5, 2011