A man riding a mobility scooter was seriously injured Wednesday morning after being struck by an alleged drunk driver who fled the scene, according to authorities in upstate New York.
Deputies said the crash happened in Queensbury, where a 60-year-old man was traveling along a roadway in a mobility scooter when he was hit by a vehicle driven by a 27-year-old man from Albany. After the impact, the driver reportedly sped away, leaving the injured victim behind.
Driver Allegedly Three Times Over Legal Limit
Investigators later located the suspect vehicle a short time after the crash. The driver was taken into custody and is accused of being highly intoxicated at the time of the incident.
According to law enforcement, the suspect recorded a blood alcohol concentration of 0.24%, which is three times over New York State’s legal limit. Deputies described the victim’s injuries as serious, though no additional details on his current condition were immediately released.
The suspect was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a personal injury accident.
Growing Concern Over Pedestrian Safety
The incident comes amid growing concerns nationwide about pedestrian safety. Data from the Governors Highway Safety Association shows that between 2009 and 2023, pedestrian deaths increased by approximately 80%, compared to a 13% rise in other traffic fatalities during the same period.
Advocates say people using mobility devices such as scooters and wheelchairs are particularly vulnerable, especially on roads without dedicated pedestrian infrastructure.
Investigation Ongoing
The Warren County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities have not released the name of the suspect or the victim, and it remains unclear whether additional charges could be filed.
Officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant, obey traffic laws, and never drive while impaired, emphasizing that hit-and-run crashes involving pedestrians often result in life-altering or fatal injuries.
