Police are looking for witnesses after a hitchhiker was hit by a vehicle last week, while reminding pedestrians and drivers to be safe on the roads.
North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP were called to the intersection of the Trans-Canada Highway and Drinkwater Road around 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 29 after a man was hit by a vehicle and transported to hospital for treatment for minor injuries.
The vehicle involved left the scene. It is described as a newer-model silver Chevrolet quad cab truck with two men inside, and is believed to have had chrome wheels and the word “Nanaimo” on the back window.
Police are trying to locate the driver and passenger of the vehicle, and would like to speak to any witnesses. Anyone with information should contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at 250-748-5522.
Police recommend that hitchhiking is avoided due to safety risks. If travellers feel it is their only option, they are urged to put safety first. Hitchhikers should wear bright or reflective clothing, and have a cell phone charged and ready for use. They should make sure others are aware of their plans and have a backup plan in case a ride doesn’t materialize.
It is illegal to solicit a ride while on the part of the road designated for vehicles under the BC Motor Vehicle Act, so hitchhikers need to be in a safe place off the road.
“Our first priority is safety,” Const. Matt Osborne said. “Hitchhikers and drivers should both consider their surroundings and their safety when making decisions on the roads. Hitchhikers should wait in a well-lit area with a shoulder or pull-out, and drivers who pick them up need to find a way to do it without endangering others on the roads.”