Burnaby RCMP is urging motorists and pedestrians to be vigilant, especially in the early morning hours, after two pedestrians were hit in different parts of the city Wednesday morning.
An 18-year-old man sustained serious, life-threatening injuries when he was hit by a westbound car on 10th Avenue and 18th Street just before 7 a.m.
The driver, who was uninjured, remained at the scene.
Burnaby RCMP is investigating the collision and would like to talk to anyone who saw it or might have dashcam video of it.
Another pedestrian, a 19-year-old woman, was hit at about the same time at the intersection of Manchester Drive and Government Street.
The woman had been crossing Manchester Drive when she was hit by a vehicle making a left turn from Government Street.
Police say she was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
The driver remained on scene and was ticketed for failing to signal for a left turn.
“Both of these collisions serve as a reminder for both pedestrians and drivers to be vigilant, particularly in the early hours of the morning,” RCMP Cpl. Daniela Panesar said in a press release. “We’re asking for people in our community to please take the time to think about they can do for their own safety and the safety of other road users before they begin their morning commute.”
Call Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9999. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.solvecrime.ca.
Pedestrian safety tips
- Wear bright, reflective clothing especially at night.
- Use crosswalks, preferably in well-lit areas.
- Make eye contact with drivers and ensure they have seen you and have stopped before stepping out into the crosswalk.
- Don’t be distracted by your phone or wear earbuds when walking. Ensure you’re aware of your surroundings and prepared to react should you need to.
- If it’s raining, ensure you can still be seen if you are using an umbrella. Consider taking the umbrella down as you approach crosswalks to ensure drivers can see you.
Driver advice
- Slow down and always follow posted speed limits.
- Slow down well in advance of crosswalks to ensure no pedestrians are about to walk out.
- Keep your eyes on the road, never drive distracted.
- Look for pedestrians and then look again.
