Police are warning last-minute shoppers to be vigilant in traffic and rainy weather, after a pedestrian was struck in the parking lot at Mayfair Shopping Centre.
The woman, who is in her 60s, was taken to hospital after being knocked down at a crosswalk about 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.
The driver looked both ways before turning left toward the Blanshard Street exit, Victoria police said.
“Just as he started to make his turn to go out to Blanshard, the lady left the sidewalk and started running across the street, because it was raining hard. He caught her with his left front wheel and knocked her down. Luckily, he didn’t drive over her; he stopped right away,” said traffic unit Const. Neil Lundin.
Lundin said the woman’s injuries appeared minor, but she was taken to hospital for a full assessment.
Charlie Appleford, who was in the passenger seat, said he didn’t see the woman before the vehicle hit her.
“It’s horrible, it’s so busy, everyone’s running and crossing the street wherever they please. You’re always on high alert in parking lots at this time of year,” Appleford said.
He said the woman was shaken up, as was the driver.
Mayfair mall security supervisor Bob Murray said the parking lot is more congested than usual with last-minute shoppers, but this was the first serious incident this holiday season.
Lundin said conditions were especially poor Tuesday for both motorists and pedestrians.
“I noticed today, especially during the heavy rain, that people have their heads down with umbrellas and they’re running,” he said, clarifying that he was not saying the woman was at fault.
“You have to keep your head up and look around, especially in this lot. Also, the drivers have to be extra vigilant.”
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