All road users must play a role in safety

Re. “Rights on red may be banned in busiest areas,” June 23

Apparently, 27 traffic deaths involved pedestrians and an additional 57 people were seriously injured. No information is offered as to over what period these injuries and deaths occurred — is it a year, two years, or 10 years?

More importantly, is it an increase from previous years? And, is there a disproportionate number of deaths/injuries at one or more intersections?

Although these deaths and injuries are unacceptable and, in many cases, probably avoidable, we cannot cherrypick information and use it as a basis for the formulation of policy and regulation.

I live in the river valley. My husband and I walk everywhere and when we do there is an inherently understood agreement between us and motorists. We stay on the sidewalks, obey traffic signals, and are aware of our surroundings.

Many pedestrians do not. How many of these pedestrian deaths were caused and/or contributed to by the negligence, distractions, and disregard for safety by the pedestrians themselves?

Before we further congest our busiest intersections with yet more delays and driver frustration, let us consider other options. Possible solutions could be signalling differences for right-hand turns; an education campaign; plus increased enforcement for pedestrians who cross illegally.

This cannot be a one-sided argument or a one-sided solution — responsibility must be shared.

Connie Shelley, Edmonton