(Kevin Kyle/CHAT News)

By Adrian St.Onge

Medicine Hat drivers asked to slow down after bus allegedly speeds through neighbourhood

Apr 20, 2024 | 7:00 AM

A video circulating on social media showing a school bus allegedly speeding in a Medicine Hat playground zone has left local residents concerned for their families safety.

Sgt. Stacey Fishley from the Medicine Hat Police Department said that posted limits are in place for a reason as lower speeds significantly reduces the likelihood of serious injury or death in an accident.

According to Fishley, speeding is an issue but most people don’t have the ability to accurately determine the speed of a moving vehicle, especially larger vehicles or vehicles travelling on a curve.

“Most people can’t estimate speeds accurately so because of that, they will look at a vehicle, especially a larger vehicle, and they will assume that it’s driving way faster than it really is,” Fishley said.

In a statement, Southland Transportation said that safety is their highest concern, citing driver training as their major focus.

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“We are investigating this situation and will apply any corrective action deemed necessary,” the company said in a statement to CHAT News.

The original poster of the video, who wished to remain anonymous, said they’re not trying to get anyone in trouble, but fears for the safety of this family and community.

The resident said they’ve witnessed seniors having to drop their groceries to get out of the way and suggests that more police presence could help.

“Just try and make some kind of difference to try and save a life. That’s all I’m asking. My daughter and my granddaughter won’t even park outside of my place anymore, they park out back. It’s just unsafe,” they said.

“If the police do something or more people call in, that’s all I’m looking for. Bring an end to this craziness. There’s no need to speed through here.”

Fishley said that the best option is to contact police with a license plate number as they would be able to follow up with the call.

Alternatively, calling in infractions still has a benefit as police monitor where calls are coming from and can dispatch patrols to a specific area that receives more complaints.