Nanaimo RCMP are reminding drivers to be mindful of pedestrians after a 62-year-old man was struck while crossing a road in the north end Thursday.
The incident took place at 4 p.m. Dec. 6 when the man was legally walking through a marked crosswalk at the intersection at Dover and Dickinson roads. He was allegedly hit by a pickup truck driven by a 77-year-old man, according to a press release from the RCMP. Police say the driver was attempting to turn left onto Dover when the front of the truck hit the victim, knocking him down and backwards a short distance.
Paramedics arrived and transported the victim to hospital, where he received treatment for soreness, bruises and bumps – he was eventually discharged.
“At the time of the collision, it was still daylight and while the pedestrian was crossing legally, it appears the driver may not have seen him,” said Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, in the press release. “It was also noted by the investigators the victim was wearing reasonably dark clothing.”
O’Brien said the incident highlights the fact that drivers should be extremely cautious at this time of year. While pedestrians have the right of way to cross, they should take a moment before stepping off the curb to ensure drivers can see them and shouldn’t assume a driver has seen them. Drivers must also be mindful and ensure a crosswalk is clear and wait until it is safe to complete a turn.
Police are still investigating the incident and no charges have yet been laid, O’Brien said.
