With shorter days as winter approaches, there are higher risks of collisions between pedestrians and motor vehicles, even on crosswalks, say police.
To lower the odds of incidents on winter roads, that can result in injuries and even fatalities, Nanaimo RCMP are offering tips to stay safe on dark, rainy nights.
“The reality is that the overwhelming majority of these incidents are preventable, if pedestrians and motorists look out for each other, “ reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, said in a press release.
Pedestrians always have the right of way when entering a crosswalk or intersection, but if an approaching vehicle doesn’t appear to be slowing, pedestrians risk serious injury or worse if they enter the crosswalk.
People are advised to look both ways for approaching vehicles, before stepping out onto a crosswalk. If vehicles are approaching, pedestrians should be sure drivers see them and are going to stop.
People wearing a hoodies should remove the hoods, so they can see what’s around them, take at least one earbud headphone out so they can hear approaching vehicles, wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight. Where there are no sidewalks, always walk facing oncoming traffic. said the press release.
Motorists need to scan crosswalks because pedestrians can be unaware of the distance it takes a motor vehicle to stop. Don't drive into a crosswalk before first checking to see that it is empty.
Always check for pedestrians before making a turn at an intersection and never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk. The driver may have stopped to let pedestrians cross and the vehicle could be blocking the view of them crossing.
Anyone with questions about fall and winter road safety is welcome to call the Nanaimo RCMP Community Policing Section at 250-734-5445 or visit Learn to drive smart page on ICBC’s website, www.icbc.com/.
