I had trouble sleeping July 24. Around suppertime, as we sat in our backyard with friends enjoying a beautiful day, we were startled by a loud thudding noise. My husband and I looked immediately into each other's eyes and both said out loud “accident.”
I ran out to check on the people while he ran in to grab the phone.
Out front, people were running from their homes to the corner of 51 Street and 53 Avenue to the scene of yet another car accident in the intersection where undoubtably the yield sign had been overlooked and ignored.
This was the third such accident in four years and the second time one of the cars had been flipped. All of these accidents occurred during daylight and beautiful weather conditions.
What I find troubling (and keeps me awake) is how the victims of these accidents are so traumatized. They are in obvious pain from injuries and confused as to what just happened. There's little bystanders can do other than give emotional support and reassurance that everything will be OK and professional help is on the way.
It gives little comfort considering that in a matter of a few seconds, this significant, unexpected and potentially life-changing event has occurred in their lives.
There was talk among neighbours about how we have seen this before and what a dangerous intersection this is. Something needs to be done. Part of me wants to demand that the yield sign be enlarged, a big red X painted through the intersection and an additional sign installed saying “caution dangerous intersection”. I don't know what the answer is but deep down I feel this accident, like so many others, is because people forget the responsibility of being a driver; to yourself, those with you in the vehicle and those around you on the streets.
We all need to pay more attention to the driving journey, not the other events, people and activities that can distract us while making that journey.
I hope the people from the July 24 accident will have the best outcome possible after their horrendous Sunday afternoon and we should all reflect on our good fortune not to be dealing with their unexpected and unfortunate situation.
Safe driving.
E. Schott
Olds
