Salt Lake City, UT (August 18, 2024) – A woman using a wheelchair was injured Friday evening after being struck by a hit-and-run driver near the entrance of an apartment complex along North Redwood Road. The incident occurred around 8:46 p.m. on August 15 and has since prompted an ongoing police investigation.
According to reports, the woman was crossing or navigating near the driveway of the Escalani Apartments when a silver Kia, believed to be occupied by two individuals, hit her and then fled the scene. Emergency responders arrived shortly after and found the victim conscious and breathing, though she reported leg pain as a result of the crash.
Fortunately, no life-threatening injuries were observed, and there was no visible bleeding. Medics provided on-scene evaluation, and additional treatment was expected as a precaution due to the vulnerable nature of the victim and the manner of the collision.
Law enforcement is currently searching for the suspect vehicle and reviewing area surveillance footage. Anyone with information about the silver Kia or its occupants is encouraged to contact Salt Lake City Police.
We are wishing the injured woman comfort and strength during her recovery.
Vulnerable Road Users and Hit-and-Runs in Utah
Friday night’s hit-and-run involving a woman in a wheelchair is a heartbreaking example of the dangers faced by Utah’s most vulnerable road users. When drivers fail to yield or remain aware—particularly at the entrances of apartment complexes or other mixed-use areas—the risk of serious injury to individuals with mobility challenges increases dramatically.
This incident, which thankfully did not result in catastrophic harm, could have ended very differently. Wheelchair users face unique hazards when navigating roadways, parking lots, and driveways. Reduced visibility, vehicle blind spots, and lack of accessible infrastructure often force individuals into areas with unpredictable traffic patterns.
Utah law requires drivers to stop and render aid after any collision involving injury. Fleeing the scene—especially when the victim is a pedestrian or someone with a disability—is not just illegal but morally unacceptable. The emotional and physical toll inflicted on hit-and-run victims can linger far beyond the initial impact.
In recent years, Salt Lake City has experienced a troubling increase in hit-and-run cases, many of which involve pedestrians. These incidents highlight the need for enhanced driver awareness campaigns, better enforcement, and improved road design in mixed-use and residential zones.
For those injured in these crashes, the path to recovery is often complicated by limited mobility, financial strain, and a deep sense of vulnerability. Access to community resources, legal guidance, and emotional support is essential in helping victims rebuild their sense of safety and independence.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a pedestrian or wheelchair-related crash—especially a hit-and-run—Local Accident Reports is here to help. We connect victims with trusted local support systems, from medical care to legal resources, so they never have to navigate the aftermath alone. Reach out today to take the first step toward justice and healing.
