Adam Droscha
Staff Writer
Downtown Charlotte experienced some unusual excitement Tuesday, Sept. 13 when a couple accidentally drove their vehicle up on the sidewalk in front of The Gavel, a local restaurant. Susan Thompson, who was pulling into a spot along the sidewalk, mounted the curb and ran over a small tree when her foot slipped off the brake. As she went back to hit the break she accidentally hit the gas, which caused the accident.
It should be noted for readers that Susan was not intoxicated or otherwise distracted when the accident took place.
For what it was, Susan and her husband Mike, who was in the passenger seat at the time, are relieved. No one was injured during the incident, and besides being a little shaken up, the Thompsons and their dogs in the backseat were fine as well. The couple was also relieved to see that their vehicle wasn’t too damaged, with the exception of a side mirror that was torn off on impact. The only apparent damage to the location of the accident was the tree in front of The Gavel.
Despite the brief scare, the accident was relatively harmless. Accidents like these, however, are a good reminder to remain vigilant wherever you’re walking. There are plenty of things to distract our attention while we’re walking, especially in a familiar place. Phones, social media, pets, others around us, and a plethora of other things can take our attention right as an accident takes place near us. Even in easy going, downtown Charlotte, an accident can happen when we least expect it. Please, for the safety of yourself and those around you, stay alert when walking around moving vehicles and traffic. And if you’re walking with children, always know where they are and don’t let them wander far.
To Susan and Mike, your Charlotte community is relieved you’re safe.
