A pedestrian was struck and knocked to the pavement by an oncoming vehicle just after 12 p.m. Thursday.

The pedestrian was crossing South First Street in a crosswalk in front of the Lincoln County/Brookhaven Government Complex when she was struck by a vehicle. The driver of the vehicle got out and assisted her before calling 911, according to witnesses.

Brookhaven police officers took a statement from the driver of the vehicle. EMTs with King’s Daughters Medical Center Ambulance Service checked the pedestrian, who declined to go to the hospital via ambulance, but was transported by family for further evaluation.

A witness said he heard statements from each person that indicated the driver of the vehicle thought he did not need to stop, but the pedestrian would, and that the pedestrian assumed she was safe to cross even with oncoming traffic because she was in a crosswalk.

The National Highway Safety Transportation Administration cautions drivers to be on the look-out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times. Drivers should slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk. Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop far enough away to give other vehicles an opportunity to see crossing pedestrians, too. Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.

Likewise, pedestrians should be cautious before stepping into a crosswalk, continuing to watch for traffic while crossing. Be alert for drivers who may not at first notice someone crossing the street. Pedestrians should also never assume drivers see them — they could be distracted or impaired.