Family of stunt victim at uninsured Jeep event demand stricter safety laws

November 18th, 2016  |  Auto

Grieving parents John and Mira Green have put out a call to their government to enact legislation that will prevent the type of mishaps that led to the untimely passing of their daughter.

Melinda Green was the victim of a tragic accident in May 2013 at an Edmonton charity fundraiser sponsored by Jeep. She was struck by one of the company’s vehicles as it was falling down during a stunt demonstration that went awry.

Despite having reportedly made an effort to ensure that the crowd was kept at a safe distance during the display, it is evident in hindsight that there were a number of areas in which more preventative measures could have been undertaken. A fatality inquiry into Green’s death revealed that the fundraiser had no safety plan or event insurance. Because it took place on private property, it did not even require a city permit.

“We would like to see enough change that safety becomes a priority rather than it is an inconvenience to have permitting or regulations,” said Mira Green, speaking for her and her husband to the Canadian Press.

It is currently unclear as to where any legislative changes would begin. Edmonton’s manager of community standards David Aitken has suggested that they should be made at the provincial level, so as to prevent event organizers from simply moving their events outside the city. Lawyer Michael Teeling believes that amendments to the Traffic Safety Act could best eliminate accidents such as this one from happening.