2 B C cities listed as most dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians BC

Pedestrian Fatalities on the Rise in British Columbia Due to Urbanization and Infrastructure Shortfalls.

The province of British Columbia is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, but it also has a significant number of pedestrian fatalities. The data from the 2020 census shows that 71% of the population lives in urban areas, which is a higher percentage than the national average. This could be a contributing factor to the high number of pedestrian fatalities in the province.

The Pedestrian Fatality Crisis in British Columbia

A Growing Concern

The pedestrian fatality crisis in British Columbia is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. The province has consistently ranked among the top three in the country for pedestrian deaths, with a staggering 502 recorded fatalities in 2020. This alarming trend has sparked concerns among policymakers, researchers, and the general public.

Factors Contributing to the Crisis

Several factors contribute to the high number of pedestrian fatalities in British Columbia. Some of the key factors include:

High population density in urban areas: The data from the 2020 census shows that 71% of the population lives in urban areas, which is a higher percentage than the national average. Lack of infrastructure: Many urban areas in British Columbia lack adequate pedestrian infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly roads. This can lead to increased risk of accidents and fatalities. Speed and traffic volume: The province’s roads are often congested, and drivers may be traveling at high speeds, increasing the risk of accidents.

The city of Surrey, in particular, had a high rate of cycling fatalities, with 11 deaths in 2019.

The Cycling Fatality Crisis in British Columbia

The statistics are stark: in 2019, British Columbia ranked second in the world for cyclists’ deaths, with a total of 81 fatalities. This alarming trend has sparked widespread concern and calls for action from cycling advocates, policymakers, and the general public.

The High-Risk Environment

British Columbia’s roads and infrastructure pose significant challenges for cyclists. The province’s vast network of roads, highways, and bike lanes creates a complex environment that can be hazardous for cyclists. Factors such as:

*Poor road design and infrastructure**

*Inadequate bike lanes and infrastructure**

*Heavy traffic and speeding**

*Lack of enforcement and education**

contribute to the high number of cycling fatalities.

Surrey: A City in Crisis

Surrey, a city in the Greater Vancouver Area, has been particularly hard hit by cycling fatalities. In 2019, Surrey recorded 11 deaths, making it the second deadliest city for cycling fatalities in the province. The city’s high rate of cycling fatalities is attributed to:

*A lack of bike lanes and infrastructure**

*Heavy traffic and speeding**

*Poor road design and infrastructure**

These factors create a high-risk environment for cyclists, making Surrey a city in crisis.

The Impact on Communities

The cycling fatality crisis has a profound impact on communities, affecting not only cyclists but also their families and loved ones.

This is a significant increase from the 2019 budget, which was $734 per resident. The increase is attributed to the province’s growing population and the need for more infrastructure to support it.

The Highway Conundrum in British Columbia

The province’s highway system is a complex issue, with various stakeholders having different opinions on how to address it. While some argue that the current infrastructure is sufficient, others believe that more needs to be done to accommodate the growing population and increasing traffic.

The Financial Burden

The financial burden of maintaining and expanding the highway system is substantial. The Ministry of Transportation budget for highway investment and operations is a significant expense, with $1,046 per B.C. resident in 2024 to 2025.

The State of Cycling and Pedestrian Safety in Canada

Cycling and pedestrian safety is a pressing concern in Canada, with many cities struggling to provide safe and accessible infrastructure for these vulnerable road users. The consequences of inadequate infrastructure can be severe, as evidenced by the alarming number of fatalities and injuries on Canadian roads.

The Statistics

129 people were killed in Mississauga, Ont., over the past decade, making it the most dangerous city in Canada for both cycling and pedestrians. In 2020, 1,463 people were killed in motor vehicle collisions in Canada, with 34% of those fatalities occurring on roads with no designated bike lanes or pedestrian infrastructure. The majority of cycling fatalities in Canada occur on roads with inadequate lighting, poor road design, and insufficient bike lanes. ## The Challenges*

The Challenges

Cycling and pedestrian safety in Canada is further complicated by a range of challenges, including:

Lack of infrastructure: Many Canadian cities lack designated bike lanes, pedestrian crossings, and other infrastructure designed to prioritize the safety of vulnerable road users.