Imagine driving to church on a Sunday morning, and suddenly, you see a toddler strolling onto a busy highway.
That’s exactly what happened to a couple in Adelaide, who were left shaken but relief-stricken after witnessing a near-miss incident.
The Terrifying Incident Caught on Dashcam
The couple, who were driving on the Salisbury Highway in Salisbury, caught the whole ordeal on their dashcam. The footage shows the little girl, named Pimchan, walking across the bike lane and onto the two-lane thoroughfare, stopping momentarily in the middle of the highway, and turning to face the oncoming traffic.
Heroes Spring into Action
As cars screech to a halt in both lanes, two men jump out of their vehicles and rush towards Pimchan, attempting to scoop her up. Just in time, a man emerges from a nearby block of units and takes the toddler, carrying her back inside the property. According to Lemuel Velasco, one of the motorists who helped, the man was visibly shaken, uttering “Oh my!” as he took Pimchan to safety.
The Family’s Relief and Gratitude
Pimchan’s parents were not present at the scene; her mum was at work, and her dad was cleaning the car. They were overwhelmed with gratitude towards the strangers who saved their daughter’s life. “I didn’t see my baby running and go to the road,” her dad said, tearing up. “I need to thank those people who helped my baby.”
A Broken Gate and a Lesson Learned
The family’s unit block had a gate, but it was currently off its hinges and out of action. The incident has prompted Pimchan’s parents to request a replacement with an electric gate, ensuring their daughter’s safety in the future. “I need this one changed, the gate,” her mum said. “Better for me also and my baby also.”
The Risks of Driveway Dangers
According to the government-supported Raising Children Network, young children are particularly at risk in driveways and yards. Toddlers and preschoolers may not yet realize that cars are dangerous and can move quietly and quickly, becoming absorbed in their play. The network suggests fencing off driveways or garages where possible, separating play areas from driveways, and providing active adult supervision until the age of at least 11.
A Close Call That Could Have Ended Tragically
This chilling incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of driveway safety and adult supervision. As Pimchan’s family counts their blessings, we’re reminded that even a split second of distraction can have devastating consequences. Let’s take a collective sigh of relief that Pimchan is safe, and her family can continue to cherish their little miracle.