Woman hit by car in Garner talks about ordeal
GARNER, N.C. (WTVD) -- A Wake County woman is talking about what it's like to be hit by a car and survive.
Jessica Watson, 25, was holding a sign outside a shopping center on U.S. Highway 401 last month when an out-of-control vehicle barreled into her.
Watson was looking to make a little extra cash for her family by holding a sign advertising for a Garner nail salon. However, 20 minutes into her first day on the job, the unthinkable happened.
"I remember looking at the traffic coming one way, and that was it," said Watson. "Then, the next thing I remember is my face rubbing against the ground."
Watson never saw the car coming before it hit her from behind. She was taken to the hospital where doctors treated the wounds along her arms and face. Amazingly, she didn't suffer any broken bones. However, she says she's still been in a great deal of pain.
"I'm hurting. I'm mad," said Watson. "I can't even pick up my 11-month-old daughter."
In addition to sharp shooting pains, Watson said she's been suffering from migraines. But, she's been unable to get treatment because Medicaid won't cover it due to the nature of the accident.
"I'm having trouble trying to get approved to get an MRI done, and to see a neurologist," said Watson.
While she fights with her insurance company, the man who hit her, 60-year-old James Evans, has just been granted release from jail by either paying $1,000 bond or being released into the custody of his brother.
If convicted, it would be Evans' fourth DWI. He's due back in court later this month. As for the outcome Watson hopes for?
"He gets the punishment he deserves," she said. "If he was under the influence of alcohol or prescription drugs, nobody should be behind the wheel for that."
Because of her injuries, Watson is also putting wedding plans with her fiance on hold.
As for whether she'd ever take another job holding a sign along a busy road, she said absolutely not.
