Close call at crosswalk

An infamous crosswalk in Kelowna remains on the caution list of many residents because of several close calls with drivers.

Kelowna resident Felix King is requesting dash cam footage from drivers and locals following a near-miss incident that endangered him and his two-year-old in a stroller.

The incident occurred on Friday afternoon, Sept. 27, while he was walking along Rutland Road North towards Sumac Road East in Kelowna.

“As we approached the middle of the pedestrian lane, a BMW car suddenly accelerated and made a quick, sharp turn that was about to hit us,” said King.

He added that it was a “miracle” that he was able to pull his stroller out of the way in time.

“If my move was delayed for at least one to three seconds, either my son or both of us could have been killed on the spot,” said King.

He noted that after speeding past, the vehicle slowed down, then accelerated again and drove off.

King described the vehicle as a white BMW sedan with tinted windows and urged anyone with information from the area between 12:30 p.m. and 12:50 p.m. to come forward.

“I immediately reported it to the police,” he said. “Sadly, as far as the license plate is concerned, I was not able to pick up my phone quickly and take pictures of the car.”

The incident comes amid reports of increased speeding in the area from residents. Members of a Kelowna Rant and Rave Facebook page have been discussing the reports of erratic driving in the area over the past few months.

Some residents have suggested fixes to the intersection to make it more visible and less prone to accidents, such adding more signs. Others have suggested installing cameras to deter drivers from speeding through.

With the fall and winter months approaching, it is important that drivers and pedestrians remain vigilant of their surroundings.

Greg Harper of ICBC urges drivers to prepare for changing conditions as the roads become slippery in the coming season.

"Given the unpredictable nature of weather, it's crucial to always be one step ahead to ensure your journey is safe and your vehicle is equipped for the season. This is equally important as adhering to speed limits and heeding traffic or road advisories,” said Harper.

If the driving behaviour poses an immediate danger, call 911 right away. Otherwise, you can contact the Kelowna RCMP’s non-emergency number at 250-762-3300.