Editor:
Why do police keep roads closed?
When a serious or fatal crash occurs, as it did on the ferry causeway on Jan. 13, there is a series of required actions set into motion. First and foremost, our priority is the preservation of life.
For the collision on the ferry causeway, air ambulance assisted due to a devastating, life-altering injury to one of the drivers who required immediate medical attention. Preservation of life includes our officers as well, who were managing traffic and investigating the scene.
The wind was incredibly strong coming off the water, and the roads were a sheet of ice, making it difficult for investigators to document the scene to determine the cause of the collision. Knowing the highway is the only way to and from BC Ferries, the officers at the scene worked diligently in the sub-zero temperatures and driving icy rain to try and keep traffic moving. A large diesel spill also made this particular scene more hazardous.
One lane was opened to alternating traffic within the first hour. BC Ferries was fully aware of the circumstances and adjusted sailings to accommodate travellers, working with officers to prioritize which traffic could be let through via the open lane.
Collisions such as this can make their way to court for a variety of reasons, and our officers may be called to testify months or years later. The evidence gathered in the wake of a crash must stand up in court, so the work police officers do in those minutes and hours following a crash is of incredible importance to everyone involved, but especially for the victims and their families.
I am confident if this were our loved one, we would want a thorough and comprehensive investigation. The DPD recognizes the importance of opening roadways as quickly as possible after a serious crash; however, it is not and cannot be the most important goal for our officers. We have to save lives, protect lives (including our own) and piece together highly complicated crash scenes.
We know that travellers are trying to catch flights, get to doctor’s appointments and many other important destinations, and as soon as investigators complete their work, we open roads immediately.
Chief Neil Dubord
Delta Police Department
