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OUR VIEW: Simple changes can curtail pedestrian crashes in Surrey

Regardless of blame, one thing’s for certain – there are way too many accidents involving pedestrians
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To the end of October, there were 113 pedestrian-related crashes in Surrey, with five fatalities. (Photos: Shane MacKichan)

Another pedestrian has been hit as she crossed a Surrey street.

A 73-year-old woman was hit by a bus near 102nd Avenue and City Parkway on Wednesday around 1:20 p.m. Police told us on Thursday morning that she’s in serious condition in hospital.

This is just the latest in a string of serious pedestrian accidents. In one of the most recent, another 73-year-old woman was killed on Nov. 25 after being struck outside of Fire Hall 4 at 146th Street and 108th Avenue. Surrey RCMP confirmed that the woman was jaywalking.

Our Facebook page is lighting up as readers weigh in on who’s to blame for all these crashes. Some point the finger at bad drivers, while others blame people who, for some reason, refuse to use crosswalks.

But time of year also plays a role. Shorter days and poor weather is a factor that leads to 43 per cent of all crashes with pedestrians between October and January, Surrey RCMP say.

Regardless of cause, one thing’s for certain – there are way too many accidents involving pedestrians in Surrey.

To the end of October, there were 113 pedestrian-related crashes, with five fatalities.

So what can we do?

“Pedestrians need to use extra caution when crossing the road and make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you,” Surrey RCMP Corporal Scotty Schumann told the Now-Leader. “Drivers need to pay attention to the road and pedestrians, reduce distractions while driving and slow down.”

Good advice. Let’s start today.



edit@surreynowleader.com

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