LETTER: Are White Rock’s sidewalks still safe?
Published 7:00 am Sunday, July 12, 2026
Editor,
Last week, while walking my dog on Foster Street, I had a frightening experience. A child, about seven years old, came speeding out of a driveway on an electric bike or scooter directly onto the sidewalk. The child barely managed to avoid hitting us and clearly did not have full control of the vehicle. Because electric vehicles are so quiet, there was no warning.
It made me wonder: are our sidewalks still safe for seniors, families, children, and people walking their dogs?
The City of Surrey and the City of Delta have taken proactive steps by posting signs informing the public of the rules surrounding electric scooters and the minimum rider age. Those signs educate parents and help prevent accidents before they happen.
Why isn’t White Rock doing the same?
Whether through bylaws, signage, newspaper notices, or public education, the City should act now rather than waiting until someone is seriously injured.
Parents also have an important responsibility to ensure young children are not operating electric vehicles on sidewalks or other public areas where they could injure themselves or others.
This isn’t about blaming anyone. It’s about preventing a tragedy before it happens.
I hope White Rock City Council will consider adopting stronger public education measures similar to those in Surrey and Delta.
Lynda Simpson, White Rock