Calgary police are out with reminders for drivers and pedestrians as winter approaches, amid the city’s deadliest year on the roads in 10 years.
Thirty-two people have died in Calgary so far this year as a result of vehicle collisions, the most in a decade, according to police. Among those killed across the city were 12 pedestrians, six motorcyclists, and two cyclists.
Of those fatal incidents, 12 involved speed, three were hit-and-runs, four involved drugs and alcohol, and 20 involved a vulnerable road user (pedestrians, motorcyclists, and cyclists).
The latest in a string of tragic events came Friday, when the driver of a car going the wrong way on Sarcee Trail died after smashing head-on into an SUV.
There have also been more than 2,500 crashes that have resulted in injuries.
“Each one of these fatal collisions represents a loved one who did not come home,” said Staff Sgt. Andy Woodward of the CPS Traffic Unit. “Every year, we see too many families devastated by fatal and injury collisions. Some lose loved ones forever, while others face injuries that can leave physical and emotional scars. We continue to urge everyone on Calgary roads to make safe choices: slow down, stay sober and limit any distractions that may take your focus away from the road.”
Senior leader of Calgary traffic management, Pat Grisak, says one death on city roads is too many.
“These figures are not just stats or data – they represent real people with families and friends who care about them and depend on them making it home safely. Engineering efforts by the City and enforcement by CPS and the Traffic Safety Team are just part of the solution, but they are not the whole equation,” he added. “Pedestrians and motorists need to make better choices.”
Sunday marked the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, prompting a reminder from officials to look out for one another.
General reminders for Calgary road users
Drivers:
- Obey all traffic signs and signals
- Establish eye contact with pedestrians
- If proceeding through an intersection or turning right on a red light, always look both ways for pedestrians and other vehicles before proceeding.
- Adhere to speed limits at all times, and remember that speed limits are designed for ideal weather and road conditions. Slow down if road conditions call for it.
- Avoid distractions: put electronic devices away when driving.
- Never drive impaired. Call a taxi, a sober friend or a rideshare service if you are going to drink or consume cannabis.
Pedestrians:
- Obey all pedestrian signals and do not cross against the signal.
- Use designated crosswalks and make eye contact with drivers before proceeding.
- Look both ways before crossing the street.
- Be mindful of vehicles in all lanes, as one car stopping doesn’t guarantee others will.
- Consider wearing bright or reflective clothing to improve visibility.
- Avoid distractions: limit the use of electronic devices or headphones when walking.
Winter travel safety tips:
- Check the weather conditions before you leave and always allow extra time for your journey.
- Clear your vehicle of snow and ice, including all windows, lights and mirrors.
- Top up washer fluid and make sure your wiper blades are in good working order.
- Drive according to road conditions.
- Always leave a safe gap between you and other vehicles.
- Keep your vehicle lights in good working condition and use headlights in low light conditions.
- Note that automatic lights may not always turn on in snowy or foggy conditions; turn them on manually if needed.
- Never leave your car running and unattended.
- Be patient. Roads and crosswalks may be slippery, and pedestrians may need extra time to cross safely.
- Pedestrians should always cross at designated crosswalks and watch for approaching vehicles. Note that in slippery conditions, vehicles may slide or be slower to stop.