Mounties in British Columbia have approved six impaired driving charges against a 29-year-old man over a crash that killed an elderly Good Samaritan near Qualicum Beach earlier this year. Patrick Hare, an 80-year-old man from Red Deer, Alberta, had stopped to help a woman whose minivan hit a power pole on Highway 19A around 2:30 a.m. on March 2. The 36-year-old woman was seriously injured, and Hare was killed when a third vehicle crashed into them. Both Hare and the woman were taken to the hospital with serious injuries, but Hare later died in a Victoria hospital. The investigation has led to six charges against Jordan Pardiac of Coombs, B.C., including dangerous driving causing death and operating a motor vehicle causing death while impaired by alcohol and cocaine.
Cpl. Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol emphasizes that there have been “repeated incidents” of people getting hurt or killed while trying to help after a collision. While the police service appreciates the sentiment of anyone trying to help, they stress that highways are dangerous places, and extreme caution needs to be exercised. BC Highway Patrol is committed to investigating and charging individuals who choose to drive while impaired by alcohol and drugs. They advise individuals to consider whether they have reflective clothing, good footwear, and are physically able to help before stopping to assist. It is recommended to call 911 or wait for a professional to arrive, as people involved in minor crashes may be safer waiting for authorities in their vehicle. If one has exited their vehicle, it is best to move away from traffic to ensure their safety.
In another incident in June, a 70-year-old man was killed when he got out of his vehicle to help after a school bus went off Highway 97 near Lac La Hache in the B.C. Interior. The man was struck by an SUV whose driver could not see around a bend in the highway, and no criminality was involved in this case. This tragic event highlights the risks involved in trying to assist during accidents on highways, and it is important for individuals to prioritize their safety when deciding to stop and offer help. It is essential to exercise caution and consider the potential dangers before intervening in such situations.
The BC Highway Patrol emphasizes that while their service acknowledges and understands the good intentions of individuals who want to help after a collision, it is crucial to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions. They are dedicated to investigating and charging individuals who choose to drive while impaired by alcohol and drugs, as impaired driving poses a significant danger to all road users. It is important for people to prioritize their own safety and well-being when deciding to assist at the scene of an accident. Waiting for professionals or authorities to arrive and avoiding unnecessary risks can prevent further accidents and tragedies from occurring on highways.
The tragic incident involving the death of Patrick Hare serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers that can arise when stopping to aid individuals involved in collisions. Despite the good intentions, individuals must prioritize their safety and consider the risks involved in such situations. Moving away from traffic and waiting for professionals to arrive are often the best courses of action to ensure personal safety when witnessing an accident on the highway. By exercising caution and taking necessary precautions, individuals can help prevent further harm and potential fatalities resulting from collisions on the roadways. Highway safety is paramount, and it is essential for all road users to be vigilant and mindful of the risks associated with impaired driving and assisting at accident scenes.
