BUTLER TWP — Authorities are investigating if a pedestrian struck by a sport utility vehicle Monday evening on Route 8 north had been drinking before the accident.

Butler Township police said Eric D. Graham, 36, of Sarver was walking along the road near the Advanced Auto store about 7 p.m. when he was hit.

Graham suffered injuries to the left side of his body, including his leg and hip, and was taken to Butler Memorial Hospital. He was conscious and alert after the accident but the extent of his injuries and his condition were not immediately known.

Police said Graham was walking southbound “along the area of the white fog line” when a Ford Explorer traveling south in the right lane hit struck him.

David Hinchberger, 25, of Chicora, the driver, immediately stopped after the accident. Police noted that Graham was illegally walking with the traffic. He was wearing “neutral colors,” including a jeans and a tan jacket.

Lt. Matthew Pearson said police are investigating if Graham was intoxicated, which could have been a factor in the accident.

They did not rule out the possibility that Hinchberger could face a traffic citation because his vehicle apparently “drifted to the right” before hitting the pedestrian.

Police said they have identified a witness to the accident.

Hinchberger's vehicle sustained minor damage.

Mercer Road Volunteer Fire Department and Butler Ambulance Service assisted at the scene.