CASE LAW - Facher v Bismellah

BC Courts Coat of ArmsThis case involves a collision between vehicles driven by Shafiqullah Bismellah and Sung Lee. They were both approaching a sharp right angle corner from opposite directions where Southpoint Drive becomes Sounthwynde Avenue in Burnaby. Evidence of Fawad Facher, a passenger in Mr. Bismellah's vehicle, is that he was traveling too fast for the corner, failed to stay in his lane and collided with Ms. Sung. His position was that one of both of the others were responsible for injuries that he sustained in the collision.

Preparing for Motorized Personal Mobility Devices

Motor Assisted CycleBritish Columbia's view of what consists of acceptable methods of transportation on our roads had changed considerably since I started policing in the 1980's. Back then, cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles and feet were pretty much all that was allowed. Devices like rollerblades, skateboards, motorized bicycles and scooters were either strictly controlled or forbidden completely.

VIDEO - Leading Pedestrian Intervals

VideoHere's a simple, almost no cost change in pedestrian walk signal timing that can reduce vehicle / pedestrian collisions by as much as 60%. Instead of illuminating the white pedestrian light at the same time as the green light for traffic, the pedestrian gets a few seconds head start. This puts them out into the intersection before drivers start to move, making them more visible.

Turning Left Over Solid Lines

Left Turn Over Double Solid LineProbably one of the most dangerous things that we do as drivers is to make a left turn. As we sit in traffic waiting for a large enough gap between oncoming vehicles we risk being hit from behind, the most common collision type on our roads. When we do turn, we present the sides of our vehicle to other traffic which is the most vulnerable position to be in.

When Drivers Kill

Scales of JusticeI've often thought to myself over the years that if I ever wanted to kill someone the best way to do it would be to drive over them. I would wait until I found them stepping into a crosswalk and make sure that I hit them while I was turning onto the street they were crossing. I would then screech to a halt, return and scream "Oh no, I didn't see them, I'm sorry!"

READING - Not So Fast!

VTPI LogoJust because we can go fast doesn't mean that we should. When it comes to the speeds set on our highways, many drivers look at it solely from an engineering point of view. Letting physics and what you can (or can't) see as your guide to personal speed setting does not take in the larger picture.

4 Way Stops

4 Way Stop SignWho goes first at a 4 way stop? The concept should be simple, first to stop, first to go. However, when more than one driver stops at the same time the situation becomes a bit more complicated. Do you know who to give the right of way to?