In the GTA we’ve been hearing far too often about accidents involving motor vehicles, and pedestrians. One colleague event commented that he is nervous to just walk around downtown anymore. (Thanks for the idea Dave!)
So, I went searching to see what’s available in the way of helpful hints to offer to you. These are tips that we should all be following no matter where we live. Here’s what the Ministry of Transportation suggests:
As a pedestrian:
- Cross at marked crosswalks or traffic lights, not in the middle of the block or between parked cars;
- Make sure drivers see you before you cross;
- Cross when traffic has come to a complete stop;
- At a traffic light, cross at the beginning of a green light. Do not cross once the “Don't Walk” signal begins to flash or once the light has turned to yellow. Never cross on a red light;
- Watch for traffic turning at intersections or entering and leaving driveways;
- Wear bright or light-coloured clothing or reflective strips, when walking in dusk or darkness.
As a motorist:
- Be patient, especially with older pedestrians who need more time to cross the road;
- Always look for pedestrians, especially when turning;
- Remember, stay alert and slow down on residential streets and through school zones.
As a parent or caregiver:
- Teach and reinforce the proper techniques for crossing the road safely with your child;
- Stress the importance of walking on the inside of the sidewalk, or where there are no sidewalks, as far away as possible from the travelled portion of the road;
- Stopping before the edge of the sidewalk at all times;
- Being alert and stopping at driveways and where there are no curbs.
If you’re looking for more information on how to keep you and your loved ones safe, take a peak here, or here, or here.
Photo credit: redvers
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