A couple from Winnipeg has raised safety concerns following separate cycling accidents at the same intersection within days of each other. Jodry Clayton suffered a collarbone fracture after abruptly stopping to avoid a collision with a turning vehicle at Sherbrook Street and Westminster Avenue. His partner, Jenn Kostesky, was hit by a truck’s rear wheel at the same intersection, resulting in fractures in her elbow, hand, and wrist.
Kostesky highlighted that drivers are not attentive to the designated bike lanes at the intersection, despite signage instructing them to yield to cyclists and pedestrians. She emphasized the importance of drivers being aware of cyclists’ right of way, especially with the increasing bike infrastructure.
Mark Cohoe, the executive director of Bike Winnipeg, suggested implementing leading pedestrian intervals at the intersection to enhance safety for cyclists and prevent similar accidents. Cohoe mentioned that providing a head start for pedestrians and cyclists before allowing cars to proceed has been successful in other areas of the city.
The City of Winnipeg stated that there are currently no plans to make changes at the Sherbrook-Westminster intersection but confirmed ongoing efforts to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists through a new network screening system. Cohoe emphasized the need for increased awareness among motorists as more people choose biking as a mode of transportation.
The couple’s incidents have drawn attention to the importance of improving safety measures at intersections to protect cyclists and pedestrians. The call for enhanced safety measures is part of a broader effort to create a safer environment for all road users in Winnipeg.
