Renewed safety concerns after teen struck on Rte. 303 near Pontiac High
Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative
SHAWVILLE – A recent collision between a vehicle and a high school student at a cross walk on Route 303 has reignited longstanding concerns over pedestrian safety in Shawville. The student, a 16-year-old attending Pontiac High School, was hit the afternoon of October 11.
The student, whose name has not been publicly released, has recovered from her minor injuries said Sergeant Marc Tessier of the Sûreté du Québec. “It was an unfortunate accident, and the driver may face infractions, but no criminal charges are expected.” Tessier noted the investigation is ongoing.
Despite the installation of a flashing light at the cross walk, many residents believe it has done little to prevent dangerous situations, especially for students who use it regularly.
“It’s been an issue for years,” said Sid Sharpe, former president of the local youth council, who has advocated for improved safety measures at the cross walk. Sharpe, who herself used the crosswalk regularly as a student, fought to have the flashing light installed after noticing drivers often failed to stop for pedestrians.
“I was on a mobility scooter back then, trying to get to my brother’s baseball games, and cars wouldn’t stop,” Sharpe recalled. “I thought the flashing light would make a difference, but it clearly isn’t enough. We still have drivers who just don’t stop.”
Sharpe recounted a personal test she conducted before the light was installed, where she attempted to cross the road without assistance. Out of nine vehicles, she said only one stopped for her.
Authorities initially resisted calls to install additional safety features, with Sharpe noting Quebec’s Ministry of Transport (MTQ) believed there was “no need” for further intervention. Yet, this recent accident has fuelled growing demands for more action to protect pedestrians.
Residents and advocates are now calling for stronger measures, such as reducing the speed limit near the school and increasing enforcement of distracted driving laws. “It’s not just about the flashing light anymore,” Sharpe said. “People are driving distracted, or they simply don’t care. We need more than a light—we need people to pay attention and to hold them accountable when they don’t.”
The accident has also raised questions about the broader issue of pedestrian safety in rural Quebec, where infrastructure improvements often lag behind growing traffic concerns. The incident has prompted residents to urge local and provincial governments to reassess current safety measures and potentially add more safeguards, such as speed bumps or increased patrols.
The scare has left many wondering how long it will be before another accident occurs at the same spot. “It’s time something more is done, before someone gets seriously hurt—or worse,” concluded Sharpe.
Photo – The cross walk on Rte. 303 in Shawville where a high school student was hit by a car on October 11. (BZ)
