The Burton family, who have lived in a serene part of the Okanagan Valley for 15 years, is grappling with a disturbing trend. In the last three years, their backyard in Kaleden, B.C., has become a crash site for vehicles veering off Highway 97.
B.C. Family Endures Fourth Backyard Crash in Three Years
In August 2022, a Ford SUV unexpectedly collided with their property. The vehicle had careened off an embankment, flown 120 feet, and damaged a boat stored on their land. Brent Burton, the homeowner, described the incident as a “fluke,” noting that the driver escaped with minor injuries.
However, this incident turned out to be just the beginning of their troubles. The Burtons have faced four separate crashes within three years. Two of those crashes occurred within just 48 hours last week, raising alarms for the family.
Recent Crashes
- March 2023: Another vehicle crashed in nearly the same spot, resulting in damage to a newly replaced boat. An elderly driver suffered a heart attack before the crash.
- Last Tuesday: A vehicle from the Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement (CVSE) agency lost control and landed in the Burtons’ yard, injuring the driver.
- Last Thursday: A Honda Pilot skidded off the road following light snowfall, narrowly missing an already damaged shed.
With each crash, Brent expressed his increasing fear. “We hear the crashes and bangs, and we’re like, ‘Oh no, not again,’” he said. The family no longer feels safe using part of their yard.
Investigations and Safety Concerns
The B.C. Highway Patrol has investigated these incidents but found no clear evidence of driver impairment. While speed may have been a contributing factor, this has yet to be confirmed. The crashes typically occur on a curve near Lakehill Road, where the speed limit reduces from 100 km/h to 80 km/h.
Brent believes that the curve’s design presents a significant safety risk, pointing to the absence of guardrails or warning signs at the transition area. “There’s got to be some sort of way of stopping stuff coming off the highway,” he insisted.
Calls for Action
In search of a solution, Burton has contacted the B.C. Ministry of Transportation, his local MLA Donegal Wilson, and RDOS director Subrina Monteith. However, he has received limited assistance. The regional district cited a lack of funding for road improvements and stated that jurisdiction complications hinder rapid response.
Despite these challenges, Monteith emphasized that local officials are advocating for safety solutions, stating that everyone involved is motivated to address the recurring issue. “Unfortunately, it could happen again,” she warned.
Government Response
Following media inquiries, the Ministry of Transportation acknowledged the recent wrecks and is reviewing the crash site for potential safety enhancements. In the interim, reflective markers will be installed to boost visibility.
While Burton appreciates the measure, he is skeptical that it will significantly enhance safety. “Visibility isn’t an issue,” he remarked. He hopes that the ongoing review will lead to more substantial solutions to protect both his family and the community from further accidents.
