N.C. State Trooper Involved in Tragic Outer Banks Accident
In an unfortunate traffic incident on March 14, 2024, a North Carolina Highway Patrol trooper and one other driver were injured in a multi-vehicle accident that significantly obstructed traffic near the historic Wright Brothers National Memorial on the Outer Banks.
Detailed Incident Report
The serious accident involved three vehicles and took place during the early morning hours, causing a hindrance to the regular flow of traffic for several hours. According to N.C. Highway Patrol 1st Sgt. Christopher Knox, the state trooper was heading north on U.S. 158 in Kill Devil Hills at around 8:40 a.m., nearing Prospect Street where the accident took place.
A Honda Odyssey minivan was moving south on U.S. 158, waiting in the left-turn lane for Prospect Street. It reportedly pulled out in front of the state trooper’s marked Dodge Charger patrol vehicle.
This resulted in the minivan striking the driver-side door of the trooper’s vehicle which propelled the patrol car onto Prospect Street. The car subsequently hit a stationary vehicle from the front and continued off the road, colliding with a traffic light. As a result, both the trooper and the driver of the Odyssey were transported to The Outer Banks Hospital for medical attention.
Aftermath and Investigation
Both individuals involved were duly treated at the hospital and later released. The accident was such that all three vehicles involved required towing services. Consequently, U.S. 158 in the northbound direction was shut down for approximately two hours following the incident.
The primary cause of the accident has been attributed to the Honda Odyssey’s driver’s failure to yield the right of way. However, despite the clear attribution, no charges had been filed against the driver at the time of reporting. Police investigation into the matter is ongoing.
The Impact on Traffic and Surrounding Areas
The incident had a major impact on the local traffic, specifically along U.S. 158, causing significant delays for commuters during peak morning hours. Furthermore, the crash site being near the popular Wright Brothers National Memorial might have added to the congestion caused by the road closure. Local residents and businesses were also potentially affected by the unexpected disruption in the usual traffic flow.
Conclusion
Incidents like these highlight the importance of traffic safety precautions and adherence to traffic rules. It is absolutely essential for motorists to observe traffic laws and yield the right of way when required, to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on the road.
