Des Moines, IA (August 14, 2025) – A 36-year-old man sustained minor injuries after being struck by a vehicle near the intersection of University Ave and a nearby McDonald’s and Quick Trip location on Wednesday morning. The man reportedly walked to a local healthcare facility on his own following the incident.
The crash occurred sometime before 9:00 a.m., with the victim arriving at 1200 University Ave to seek treatment for an ankle injury. Emergency medical services were dispatched to the Primary Health Care clinic, where the man confirmed he had been hit by a car approximately 30 minutes earlier near the fast food establishments. While his injuries were not considered life-threatening, medics evaluated him on-site and prepared for hospital transport.
Authorities have not released details about the vehicle involved, and it is currently unclear whether the driver remained on the scene or if a report was filed at the time of the incident. Investigators may be reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses to gather more information.
We send our best wishes for a quick recovery to the injured man.
Pedestrian Injuries in Urban Corridors
Incidents like Wednesday morning’s collision near University Ave reflect an ongoing concern in urban areas where pedestrian activity intersects with heavy traffic flow and commercial entrances. Busy corridors lined with fast food restaurants, gas stations, and small retail outlets often create a mix of vehicle movement and foot traffic, making them hotspots for pedestrian-related accidents.
The area surrounding University Ave in Des Moines sees a constant stream of drivers entering and exiting parking lots, creating unpredictable traffic patterns. In such environments, pedestrians may be struck during low-visibility turns or as drivers rush to access drive-thru lanes or fuel stations.
What makes this case especially notable is that the injured man did not call for immediate emergency assistance but instead walked to a healthcare clinic. This suggests either a delayed reaction to the injury or uncertainty about the severity — both common occurrences in pedestrian accidents, particularly when adrenaline masks pain symptoms initially. While the man’s ankle injury was described as minor, ankle trauma can involve ligament damage, fractures, or swelling that may worsen without prompt care.
Pedestrians who are struck — even at low speeds — should always receive a professional medical assessment and report the incident to authorities. Documentation is essential not only for medical treatment but also for insurance and legal protection, especially when driver identification is unknown or unverified.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident near a business or high-traffic commercial area, you deserve support and answers.
At Local Accident Reports, we help injury victims stay informed, access recovery resources, and take the right steps toward healing. Whether you need guidance after a hit-and-run or help navigating the aftermath of a serious injury, our team is here for you. Reach out to Local Accident Reports today and let us be part of your recovery journey.
