Douglas County, KS (August 22, 2025) – A pedestrian was seriously hurt in Douglas County early on Friday morning after being struck by a vehicle while running along the roadway. The collision occurred just before 5:30 a.m. on N 1400 Rd between E 1900 Rd and E 2000 Rd, between Lawrence and Eudora.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, a 27-year-old Lawrence man was running east on N 1400 Rd when he was hit by a westbound 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier driven by a 70-year-old man from Eudora. The pedestrian sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The driver of the Cavalier also suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital, but was later released.
Authorities closed the area for several hours to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The names of those involved have not yet been released. Our thoughts are with the injured pedestrian and his family as he recovers.
Pedestrian Safety in Douglas County
Collisions involving pedestrians, such as this crash on N 1400 Rd, underscore the dangers runners and walkers face on rural roads. Limited lighting, higher vehicle speeds, and narrow shoulders all contribute to the increased risk of serious injury in these settings.
In Kansas, rural counties like Douglas see a significant number of pedestrian-involved crashes each year, often in areas without sidewalks or dedicated pedestrian infrastructure. These incidents highlight the need for both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution. Drivers must remain alert for individuals on the roadway, especially during early morning hours when visibility is reduced. Pedestrians and runners, in turn, should use reflective clothing and stay as far from the roadway as possible.
Victims of pedestrian crashes often face long recoveries, steep medical expenses, and emotional challenges. Ensuring proper documentation of the incident and seeking legal guidance may help injured individuals and their families pursue necessary support and compensation.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.