CARTHAGE, Hancock County, Ill., Oct. 31, 2026 — A construction worker was critically injured on Wednesday morning, October 28, after a vehicle struck him and then hit a paving machine near Ferris, Illinois, according to the Hancock County Sheriff's Office.
The crash happened in the 1700 block of East County Road 1800 N., where a 2019 Kia Sorento struck the worker before colliding with the paving machine, Hancock County Sheriff B. Travis Duffy said. The worker suffered critical injuries and was flown by medical helicopter to an area hospital for treatment.
The driver of the Sorento was identified as 77 year old Philip K. Knoche. Following a preliminary investigation, Knoche was cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, Duffy said.
The crash remains under investigation by the Hancock County Sheriff's Office and the Illinois State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit.
We hope those who were hurt recover fully and quickly.
More on Crashes in Carthage, IL
This pedestrian crash happened on County Road 1800 in Carthage, IL. We cover crashes across Hancock County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Hancock County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a pedestrian or worker do after being struck by a vehicle?
Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor at first, and make sure the incident is reported to police so an official record exists.
Who typically has the right of way in work zones or at crosswalks?
Rules vary by location, but drivers are generally required to yield to pedestrians and workers in marked crossings or active work zones and to slow down or stop as conditions require.
What injuries are common in pedestrian related crashes?
These crashes frequently cause broken bones, head and spinal injuries, and internal injuries, since a pedestrian has little protection against a vehicle's impact.
