One Person Gets Hit by a Car Every Day in Calgary

February 20th, 2016  |  Auto

The results of a decade long study, which examined the number of pedestrian collisions in the city of Calgary were released this week, revealing the stunning truth that on average, a person is hit by a car every day in the city.

According to the Calgary Herald, the data is pulled exclusively from police reports, which don’t include the numerous minor unreported incidents that occur every year. The collisions resulted in 3,317 injuries and 95 deaths.

The data also goes so far as to show that in more than half (53 per cent) of the incidents, the pedestrians had the right of way.

While there is an unacceptable number of pedestrian collisions, it appears that Calgary still ranks well in regards to number of casualties per 100,000 population with 31 per 100,000 compared to a an average of 52 per 100,000 for other major Canadian cities. Perhaps the most shocking number is that 18 per cent of the pedestrian collisions were hit and runs.

What the data shows is that the government has some work to do in making the streets safer for pedestrians. It’s important to note that the power ultimately rests in drivers’ hands.

When you’re driving, take care not to speed. Don’t be distracted and keep in mind that the other people on the road have families and people who care about them too. If you hit someone and decide to keep driving without providing any assistance you could very well be the reason that person dies. Take responsibility and contact your insurance company right after calling emergency services.

A car is a dangerous machine. Handle it with care.