The region is warning people to be careful as days get shorter and commutes get darker with reduced visibility even as yet another pedestrian was hit.
The female pedestrian sustained minor injuries, unlike the 76-year old man (see below) who died after being hit while on a crossover on October 17, or the two-year old – who was among five under-three year old kids and a daycare worker hit on October 21. The two-year old was airlifted to a trauma centre with life threatening injuries.
The region pointed out that the highest number of collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists are between October and December. It advised people to be extra cautious and practice road safety.
In the third pedestrian-related incident, a female pedestrian sustained minor injuries after being struck by a vehicle in Ajax on Friday, October 23, at the intersection of Taunton Road West and Westney Road North.
At about 7:05 am, a 21-year-old female pedestrian was crossing Taunton Road West in a westbound direction when she was struck by a red Toyota sedan being driven by a 62-year-old female.
Investigators have determined the driver was turning left, from Taunton Road West onto Westney Road North when the collision occurred.
The pedestrian sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
The driver has since been charged with careless driving, police said.
Members of West Division attended the scene and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information, video or dash-camera footage, or any witnesses are asked to contact PC Sriskandakumaran of the West Division at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1901.
Tips To Improve Safety
Drivers:
- Pay special attention to crosswalks and sidewalks as you approach intersections, even if you have a green light.
- Reduce your speed.
- Ensure your full headlight system is turned on.
- Double-check for pedestrians, e-scooters and cyclists when turning.
Pedestrians:
- Always cross at an intersection where there is a traffic control device, such as a traffic control signal, stop sign or pedestrian crossover.
- Be sure that drivers see you by making eye contact with motorists before attempting to cross a road.
- Wear brightly-coloured and/or reflective clothing so that you are more visible during darker hours.
- Do not wear headphones or use your phone or other devices when crossing the road.
- Be careful and wait until traffic has come to a complete stop before you cross
Cyclists and e-scooter riders:
- Obey all traffic laws and responsibilities as a road user.
- Turn on headlamps and taillights at least 30 minutes before sunset.
- Be visible by ensuring you have reflective gear and clothing.
- Be alert and do not wear headphones when riding.