Edmonton’s Valley Line LRT has seen 31 vehicle collisions since 2023, prompting a safety campaign by the Alberta Motor Association to reduce crashes
Collisions Involving Valley Line LRT Continue in Edmonton
Edmonton has seen collisions involving the Valley Line LRT. There have been two incidents in the last two months. This trend frustrates users at the Bonnie Doon Station who depend on the LRT.
| Incident | Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collision | Last two months | Bonnie Doon Station | Two incidents reported |
| Total Crashes | Since 2023 | Valley Line | 31 crashes, including nine last year |
Lillian Marie, a Valley Line user, said, “There could be more safety precautions that they could have used.”
Another user, Laura Reinoso, mentioned, “I think it’s something from both sides, like there’s obviously reckless drivers.”
Another user expressed, “I’d be pretty upset if I got hit by a train, but I really don’t think it’s the fault of the LRT or the Valley Line or the City.”
The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) sees this as a significant issue. They are launching a campaign to remind drivers to stop for trains. They stress that ignoring signals and signs can have serious consequences, including affecting insurance premiums.
Hannah Hamilton, the safe communities program manager at AMA, stated, “When people aren’t paying attention, they’re not taking the act of driving seriously because it is a serious activity. We put everyone around us at risk.”
AMA notes that the Valley Line is unique. They report a lower number of crashes for train lines with crossing arms. Data from the city shows no crashes involving the Capital or Metro Line LRTs last year.
One Valley Line user commented, “I think that would be helpful. I don’t see why we don’t have them here.” They added that unclear signage may be an issue but feel drivers should know to watch for the LRT.
Marie added, “I think it would have been way better if we had crossroads arms.”
However, a city councilor stated there are no plans to add crossing arms for the Valley Line. They emphasized that it is the driver’s responsibility to look and follow signs and signals.
Ashley Salvador, the councillor for Ward Métis, said, “When it comes to traffic, signaling and signage, I do believe some improvements have been made to ensure that drivers are well aware of the rules that exist. But yeah, any adaptations when it comes to crossing arms, unlikely to be moving forward at this time.”
AMA hopes to see fewer crashes this year. Hamilton advised, “Giving yourself enough time to do your commute without feeling rushed in it so that you don’t take shortcuts.”
