Accidents on Local Roads Send Two Men to Hospital
Jackson County, NC – It’s been a tough week for local roads, with two serious accidents sending two men to Mission Hospital in Asheville. Accidents can leave everyone in a bit of a shock, so let’s take a moment to understand what happened and how the individuals are doing.
Wreck on N.C. 107
The first incident took place on May 15 around 2:45 p.m.. Christopher Michael Johnson, a 35-year-old man from Sylva, was out for a ride on his moped. He was traveling north on N.C. 107, just past Lyle Wilson Road in Cullowhee when things took a turn for the worse. Johnson lost control and veered off the road to the right, leading to his ejection over the guardrail. Fortunately, he was quickly attended to by emergency responders and was transported by ambulance to Mission Hospital.
What’s concerning here is that there were no citations issued, which implies it might have been an accident with no obvious traffic violation involved. At the moment, Johnson is recovering at the hospital, and we hope for a speedy return to health.
Second Incident Near Bear Creek Road
Then, just a day later on May 16 at about 12:40 p.m., another troubling accident occurred. This one involved Gary Duane Haymen, a 58-year-old man visiting from Mt. Dora, Florida. He was driving on N.C. 281 and was headed southeast towards Lake Toxaway when he entered a curve a bit too fast for comfort.
According to N.C. Highway Patrol Sgt. Matt Wike, Haymen ran off the right shoulder and unfortunately struck a couple of trees. This turn of events earned him a citation for exceeding a safe speed. Like Johnson, Haymen was swiftly taken by ambulance to Mission Hospital for treatment.
Both individuals are currently listed as patients at the hospital as of Tuesday morning. Local authorities are working to get a clearer picture of the incidents as investigations continue.
Navigating Local Roads
As we can see, navigating the winding roads of Jackson County can be tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain or conditions. Whether riding a moped or driving a car, it’s crucial to stay alert and drive safely. The curves in our beautiful landscape might look scenic but can be challenging, especially under certain conditions or speeds.
The community always comes together during tough times, and the friends, family, and other loved ones of Johnson and Haymen are certainly hoping for their quick recovery. It’s also a reminder to stay safe on the roads and watch out for each other, whether you’re a local or just passing through.
What to Do If You’re Involved in an Accident
If you ever find yourself in a car or motorcycle accident, it’s essential to remain as calm as possible. Here are a few key steps to consider:
- Check for Injuries: Ensure everyone involved is safe. Call for emergency help if necessary.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures and collect information from other parties involved.
- Notify Authorities: If the situation requires it, don’t hesitate to call the police.
- Contact Insurance: Make sure to report the accident to your insurance company.
In the end, we hope to see both of these men back on their feet soon. Stay tuned for any updates on their conditions, and let’s all keep safety at the forefront whenever we hit the roads. Drive safe, Jackson County!
