Alarming Increase in Accidents

Edmonton's Valley Line southeast LRT has seen alarming incidents, with two separate crashes occurring within a mere 48 hours, resulting in injuries to two individuals.

First Incident Details

The first incident unfolded on Tuesday morning when a semi-truck collided with an LRT train, causing it to derail just blocks away from Davies Station. The truck driver made an unlawful right turn at a red light, leading to the collision around 10:20 a.m. Witnesses reported that the LRT was traveling south when the truck attempted to turn onto 75 Street from the 66 Street and 75 Street offramp to Whitemud Drive. As a result of the impact, one passenger aboard the tram was transported to the hospital with injuries that, fortunately, were not life-threatening, according to the Edmonton Police Service.

Second Incident Involving Cyclist

Less than 24 hours earlier, another collision occurred involving an LRT train and a cyclist at the intersection of 83 Street and 82 Avenue, near Bonnie Doon station. The cyclist, a 49-year-old man, attempted an illegal right turn on a red light and collided with the train's driver’s side. Paramedics attended to the cyclist, taking him to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries as well.

Trend of Escalating Crashes

These accidents mark a significant trend; the southeast LRT line has now been involved in four crashes this summer, with two of those incidents resulting in derailments. A previous derailment occurred on August 26 when an LRT train hit a truck making an illegal maneuver onto Roper Road from 75 Street. Eyewitness reports suggest that there was another collision at the same intersection just a week prior.

Previous Incidents

Adding to the concerns, Edmonton Transit Service acknowledged another incident near Davies Station on June 28, involving a pick-up truck colliding with a train, as evidenced by video footage shared on social media.

Concerns about Traffic Safety

The rise in incidents raises serious questions about traffic safety and the adherence of both motorists and cyclists to the rules of the road, which are crucial for ensuring the safety of all road users, especially as Edmonton approaches a population threshold of 1.25 million.

Looking Ahead: Solutions Required

With ongoing incidents and safety reports piling up, residents and commuters are left seeking solutions for safer travel on the Valley Line LRT. What measures will Edmonton city officials implement to curb this troubling trend? Stay tuned for updates as the story develops!