In the wake of several fatal crashes in the Fraser Valley, police are reminding drivers to slow down as spring break approaches.
Recent pedestrian fatalities have highlighted the importance of caution and awareness on the roads, Upper Fraser Regional Detachment RCMP stated in a March 14 press release.
Between Feb. 9 and March 13, there were at least six fatalities in the Fraser Valley, four of which involved pedestrians.
In Chilliwack, three people died in three separate pedestrian collisions in two-and-a-half weeks, one of which claimed the life of a three-year-old boy.
In Abbotsford, a pedestrian was killed on Feb. 9, and then two people died on March 13 when the pickup truck they were in crashed into telephone pole and flipped.
"These recent incidents serve as a tragic reminder of how quickly lives can change," said Insp. Jeff Bowerman, interim officer in charge. "With increased travel and activity on our roads, it’s more important for all road users to stay alert, follow the rules, and look out for one another."
With warmer weather on the way, and as more people take to the streets, sidewalks, and bike lanes, police are "reminding all road users – drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and motorcyclists – that road safety is a shared responsibility. Police are urging everyone to do their part to prevent further tragedies."
RCMP said their officers will remain proactive in road safety enforcement, targeting dangerous driving behaviours that put lives at risk. They are also working to raise public awareness by engaging with communities, sharing safety tips, and promoting responsible road use.
"Drivers should slow down, avoid distractions, and yield to pedestrians. Cyclists are required to follow traffic laws and signal correctly. Pedestrians need to be visible and cross at designated areas after ensuring it is safe to do so. Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone," Bowerman said.
