Stuart, FL (August 27, 2026) – A 76-year-old pedestrian sustained non-life-threatening injuries after being struck by a pickup truck on Tuesday, August 25, in a parking lot in Stuart.
Stuart police responded around 11:15 a.m. to the Ocean East Mall on Southeast Ocean Boulevard near Southeast Monterey Road. Police said the woman, a Palm City resident, was walking away from the area of a Dollar Tree store when she was struck.
According to police, a woman driving the pickup was heading toward the store and making a left turn when the crash occurred. The vehicle was not traveling at a high rate of speed, police said.
The injured pedestrian was flown to a trauma center for treatment. The pickup driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no charges have been filed at the time of the report.
Our thoughts are with the injured woman and her loved ones. We wish her a full and speedy recovery.
What Should Drivers Know About Parking Lot Pedestrian Safety?
Parking lots can present risks for pedestrians because vehicles may be turning, backing up, or moving through areas where people are walking. Drivers should travel at low speeds and remain alert for pedestrians near store entrances, sidewalks, and crosswalks. Taking extra time to check the surrounding area can help prevent collisions.
Turning vehicles should yield to pedestrians when required and should carefully check the direction of travel before completing a maneuver. Pedestrians can be difficult to see when they are near other vehicles or structures, so drivers should avoid assuming the path is clear. Using mirrors and checking blind spots can provide additional awareness.
Pedestrians should remain attentive to nearby vehicles and use designated walkways when available. Making eye contact with a driver can help confirm that a motorist has noticed them, although pedestrians should continue watching for moving vehicles. Both drivers and pedestrians can reduce risks by staying alert and avoiding distractions.
