Introduction: The State of Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety in British Columbia
British Columbia, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor attractions, faces a concerning reality regarding pedestrian and cyclist safety. Recent data compiled by Preszler Law Firm reveals that BC ranks among the most dangerous provinces in Canada for these vulnerable road users. From 2015 to February 2025, the province saw 502 pedestrian fatalities and 81 cyclist deaths. This alarming trend highlights a critical need for improved infrastructure and safety measures to protect those who walk and cycle.
BC’s Rankings: A Closer Look at the Numbers
The data paints a stark picture of BC’s safety challenges. With 502 pedestrian fatalities, BC is the third most dangerous province, while its 81 cyclist deaths place it second in the nation. Cities like Surrey and Vancouver are particularly concerning. Surrey, with 52 pedestrian deaths, has a fatality rate of 1.03 per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than Vancouver’s 0.36 per 100,000 despite the latter’s higher total of 82 deaths. Cyclist fatalities in Surrey and Vancouver were 11 and 5, respectively, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in these urban centers.
Expert Insights: Understanding the Underlying Causes
Jen Petersen, Executive Director of the BC Cycling Coalition, points to a systemic issue: underinvestment in pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. Despite BC’s bike-friendly climate, the province allocates minimal funds to these areas, with a mere $3 per resident from 2011 to 2025, compared to $1,046 per resident for highways. Petersen emphasizes that this imbalance perpetuates unsafe conditions, highlighting the need for a shift in budget priorities to create safer environments for all road users.
Advocate’s Perspective: The Need for Connected Infrastructure
Navdeep Chhina from HUB Cycling echoes these concerns, advocating for comprehensive active transportation networks. Current infrastructure, often fragmented and disconnected, fails to provide safe routes to essential destinations. Chhina argues that building networks that seamlessly connect residential, commercial, and recreational areas is crucial. This approach would reduce conflicts between different road users, fostering a safer and more inclusive transportation system.
Comparative Context: BC in the National Spotlight
While BC’s statistics are troubling, they are part of a broader national issue. Mississauga, Ontario, leads as the most dangerous city for both pedestrians and cyclists, with 129 fatalities over a decade. This comparative context underscores the need for BC to learn from other regions and implement proven strategies to enhance safety, such as dedicated bike lanes, improved crosswalks, and enhanced driver education programs.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Policymakers
The data and expert insights underscore a critical call to action for policymakers. Prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety through strategic infrastructure investments is not just a matter of budget allocation but a moral imperative to protect human lives. By adopting a holistic approach to transportation planning, BC can reduce fatalities and create a safer, more sustainable future for all road users. The time to act is now, ensuring that no more lives are lost on BC’s roads.
