Pedestrian-vehicle collisions down in 2014
The number of pedestrian collisions was down in Edmonton last year but improvements are still coming to some of the most notorious crosswalks in the city.
In 2014, 155 pedestrians were struck by vehicles in crosswalks and intersections, compared to 159 in 2013. In 2009 and 210, the number of pedestrian-vehicle collisions were 240 and 216, respectively.
- Woman hit at Jasper Ave crosswalk is restaurant employee
- Father urges drivers to be careful after girl, 12, hit twice in crosswalks
Two of last year’s collisions resulted in death.
Gerry Shimko, director of the city’s office of traffic safety, says the city’s efforts to reduce the number of collisions are paying off.
“And speed is a huge contributor to injuries to pedestrians. The other aspect too is we've done quite a bit of work on Jasper Avenue, 97 to 109 [Streets], improving the wait and pedestrian safety there.”
Corey Hamilton agrees that speed is a factor. The Edmonton man has been struck twice while using a crosswalk in the Whyte Avenue area. One time a vehicle struck his arm when he had it extended in front of him.
In that instance, a police officer saw what happened and stopped the driver. Hamilton has a message for people who drive too fast.
“Slow down. That’s all you got to do."
Shimko says more work needs to be done particularly on crosswalks on Whyte Avenue, Jasper Avenue, 104th Avenue and 109th Street -- the four areas with the highest number of pedestrian-vehicle collisions.
"Extending zebra crosswalks, adding fixtures -- either flashing or going to a full signalized pedestrian control.”
Education is another part of the solution. Pedestrians are urged not to allow their phones or music to distract them.