It’s easy to forget that accidents can surprise you in an instant.
With the days getting shorter and increased rainfall hitting Victoria, it’s important for drivers and pedestrians to remember to take extra care on the roads this season.
On Monday, a dashcam video of a woman in-her-50s being struck by a vehicle on Shelbourne street was shared to social media.
The incident was sudden and occurred on Sunday evening around 4:55 p.m. at the intersection of Shelbourne St and Feltham Rd.
The woman, who can be seen crossing an intersection on the right of the video, was taken to hospital after the event. She was treated for minor injuries, and police describe the accident as “low impact.”
Warning: Video contains graphic images
https://www.facebook.com/ashia.reda/videos/o.126545880826277/1603809106387117/?type=2&theater
SaanichPD says that the woman was crossing the intersection while the ‘no walk’ signal was on.
“As a pedestrian make sure you are being responsible and crossing when you are supposed to,” Saanich police told Victoria Buzz.
For safety tips on driving and walking at night, police have some recommendations:
Drivers
- When approaching an intersection always scan right and left for pedestrians before continuing through.
- When operating a vehicle, be cautious of pedestrians who may be distracted or unaware of their surroundings (texting, on the phone, headphones in, umbrella or hood blocking their vision).
- Obey the speed limit, especially during less than ideal weather conditions.
- Vehicles should have their lights on to increase visibility, regardless of the time of day.
Pedestrians
- Cross only at intersections or marked crosswalks, never jay walk.
- Dress to be seen especially at night and on dark/overcast days.
- Make sure you can hear and see oncoming cars. Remove your headphones and your hood when crossing the street.
- Make eye contact with drivers. Keep your head up & look where you’re walking. Never assume that drivers see you.
- Always look for signs that a vehicle is about to move (rear lights, exhaust smoke, sound of motor, wheels turning).
- Walk on the inside edge of the sidewalk so you are further away from traffic.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles.
