With changing weather conditions, fewer daylight hours, and recent high-profile incidents involving pedestrians hit by vehicles, Ridge Meadows RCMP has launched a traffic safety initiative aimed at both driver and pedestrian safety.
It launched on Oct. 12, and involved officers with the Road Safety Target Team (RSTT) conducting multifaceted enforcement efforts in high pedestrian collision locations.
In just a few hours, officers handed out 28 violation tickets along Lougheed Highway between 207 and 222 Street, and spoke to several pedestrians and drivers about road safety.
This enforcement effort included eight violation tickets issued to pedestrians for failing to use a crosswalk, and a variety of tickets to drivers and cyclists for other moving violations.
One pedestrian even jaywalked in front of a police vehicle while officers were conducting enforcement.
Another pedestrian was issued two tickets for two separate violations.
Ridge Meadows RCMP has recorded three fatal pedestrian motor vehicle incidents in 2025. The most recent occurring on Oct. 1 at 210 Street and Lougheed Highway. A second serious pedestrian motor vehicle incident also occurred on Sept. 22 at 216 Street and Lougheed Highway. Since 2024, 15 per cent of traffic collisions in this stretch of roadway have involved pedestrians.
“Drivers and pedestrians both have a shared responsibility for road safety,” says Staff Sgt Chris Kelly. “The consequences of not following safe practices can unfortunately often be tragic.”
“Simply put – Don’t be a statistic. Slow down, pay close attention, and remember to only use marked crossings, especially at busy intersections. You might save a life, even your own.”
RSTT officers, along with frontline officers, will continue to focus on proactive driver and pedestrian safety enforcement and education during the fall and winter season. Police encourage residents to promote safety driving practices and have discussions with friends and families about the increased risks on our roadways during this time.