Hyderabad student Mohammed Zaid critically injured in a road accident in Connecticut, US, family appeals for government support
A tragic incident has left a Hyderabad family in distress as their son, Mohammed Zaid, a student at the University of Bridgeport, Connecticut, sustained severe injuries in a road accident in the United States.
The Accident
Zaid, a resident of Old Malakpet in Hyderabad, had gone out to purchase groceries when he was struck by an unidentified car. He was rushed to St. Vincent’s Medical Centre under Hartford HealthCare, Connecticut, where doctors placed him on a ventilator after he remained unconscious for three days.
His father, Mohammed Ismail, revealed that Zaid is pursuing his graduation in health profession and related clinical sciences. The family has appealed to the Telangana State government and the US Consulate General in Hyderabad for urgent assistance, including the issuance of emergency visas, to be by his side during this critical time.
Possible Causes of the Accident
While investigations are ongoing, several factors may have contributed to the accident:
- Driver Negligence – Over-speeding, distracted driving, or reckless behavior by motorists are among the leading causes of pedestrian accidents.
- Poor Visibility – Evening or night conditions, inadequate street lighting, or weather-related issues might have reduced visibility.
- Lack of Pedestrian Safety Infrastructure – Absence of pedestrian crossings, footpaths, or traffic calming measures often makes students and residents vulnerable while crossing roads.
Preventive Measures for Road Safety
Such incidents highlight the urgent need to reinforce road safety awareness and infrastructure both in India and abroad. Key preventive measures include:
- For Drivers:
- Avoid distracted driving (mobile phone use, multitasking, etc.).
- Follow speed limits, especially near residential and university zones.
- Be vigilant in areas with pedestrian traffic.
- For Pedestrians:
- Use designated crosswalks and footpaths.
- Wear visible clothing at night or carry reflective accessories.
- Stay alert while crossing busy streets instead of relying solely on traffic signals.
- For Governments:
- Ensure well-lit streets and safe pedestrian crossings.
- Strict enforcement of traffic rules to curb reckless driving.
- Collaborate internationally to spread road safety awareness among student communities abroad.
A Larger Concern
The case of Mohammed Zaid is not isolated. With thousands of Indian students studying overseas, such accidents underscore the need for both personal safety precautions and government-level support systems. Families separated by continents require urgent mechanisms for emergency travel and consular help when tragedy strikes.
About the Author
