NEW PERTH, P.E.I. — Two people escaped serious harm, but a horse was injured after a truck struck a buggy in Kings County early March 20.
RCMP said a driver of the truck was coming out of a driveway onto Route 22 in New Perth just after 7:30 a.m. when he struck the rear end of the horse-drawn buggy.
The collision was enough to total the buggy and throw its driver off. The horse was treated by a local veterinarian who attended the scene. The horse sustained moderate injuries.
Both drivers were shaken, but uninjured.
Montague Fire Department, Island EMS, Georges Towing as well as bystanders assisted at the scene.
A 17-year-old driver was charged under the Highway Traffic Act for failing to properly clear windshield after striking the rear of the southbound carriage on Rte. 22 New Perth area.
Kings District Staff-Sgt. Howard Fitzpatrick said the driver of the truck, who was under 18 years of age, was issued a summary offence ticket for failing to clear the vehicle’s windows of frost.
Fitzpatrick reminded drivers to be aware of people operating horse-drawn buggies in the area.
“People operating these buggies are taking steps to be more visible, with either reflective yield signs or flashing lights, so we’re just asking people to be cognizant of these types of vehicles,” he said.
Neither speed nor alcohol/drugs were a contributing factor, but RCMP continue to remind drivers to fully clear all windows of any snow, ice, frost or obstructions before heading out on Island roads, and to pay attention at all times.
Driving conditions, slow moving vehicles and special circumstances that require the driver's full attention are frequent and require the driver's undivided attention to keep everyone safe.
Fitzpatrick also reminded drivers to ensure their windows are completely clear of frost before pulling out of their driveways.
