There is a pedestrian hit almost every other day in Langley, said police. It’s a shocking statistic and one police are trying to change.
Every year, an average of 21 pedestrians are injured in crashes which take place from October to December. With November upon us, it is the most dangerous time of the year to be a pedestrian, said Langley RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Holly Marks.
“Everyone needs to do their part. As a pedestrian, you need to be aware of your surroundings. If there is a crosswalk — use it. Let’s put our cellphones away and pay attention, whether we are walking or driving,” said Marks.
Over the last two weeks, Langley RCMP and Integrated Road Safety Unit officers conducted several operations to educate the public about pedestrian, transit and cyclist safety. Two education and two enforcement sessions took place in Aldergrove and the Willowbrook area.
The first week involved face-to-face conversations with pedestrians providing key tips and the distribution of reflective zipper pulls to pedestrians.
The second week focused on enforcement, including officers who dressed up in costumes on Thursday (Halloween day).
During that enforcement blitz, nearly 150 violation tickets were issued by police in 2.5 hours.
A total of 23 tickets were handed out to pedestrians during the blitz. Distracted drivers were also observed by police, with 42 getting tickets.
Thirty-nine people received tickets for not wearing seatbelts, and three cyclists were ticketed for not wearing helmets.