Police reminder to drivers after child hit by car

Police have reminded people to take extra care when around driveways and footpaths after a child was hit on Saturday. Photo/ file.

A child struck by a reversing car has sparked police to remind drivers to take extra care around driveways and footpaths.

A three-year-old was riding a bicycle on a footpath with her parents walking behind her when she was hit by a car in Greenmeadows, Napier on Saturday morning.

The parents spotted the car reversing from a driveway and managed to slow the driver down, however he didn't have enough time to completely stop and the child was struck as a result.

Luckily the child was wearing a helmet and only received minor scrapes and bruises.

Senior sergeant Mike Stevenson said it was a timely reminder for drivers to exercise caution around driveways and footpaths.

"As a driver, it is your responsibility to make sure the area around your vehicle is safe, especially around residential driveways where children could be playing."

Mr Stevenson said it was easy for young children to disappear below normal vehicle sight lines and blind spots so drivers needed to ensure the space was clear around them.

"Children are most vulnerable to vehicles when they are moving in and out of driveways, so please take care and take your time when backing out."