The York RegionalPolice Traffic Bureau is urging pedestrians to take additional precautions onour roadways after two pedestrian fatalities and one critical injury in YorkRegion and a total of 10 pedestrian fatalities across the Greater Toronto Area since January 1, 2010. Traffic Bureau officers are advising pedestrians andmotorists to educate themselves on the rules of the road and be aware of safetytips that could prevent serious injury or death.
Pedestrians may notbe aware of the safety enhancements already engineered into roadways andintersection signal equipment. For example, pedestrians should always press thebutton for the walk signal at intersections. Pressing the button alerts theequipment that a pedestrian is there and needs time to cross. Not pressing thebutton and simply waiting for the green light means the signals do not factor apedestrian crossing into its timing sequence and prioritizes the signals forcars, which could result in less time to cross. In addition, most intersectionsnow feature easy-to-see LED lights and many intersection signals now include asecond countdown indicating the time left pedestrians have to cross. Many ofthese are audible to assist the visually impaired.
Pedestrians are urgedto always stay within the marked crosswalk. Never cross mid-block where driverswill have difficulty seeing you. The crosswalk markings are an automaticindicator to drivers to watch for pedestrians. Pedestrians should also crossbriskly and if you are not sure you have enough time, don’t take a chance - waitfor the next signal cycle and a fresh walk signal.
Pedestrians are alsourged to use common sense. Be aware and alert to your surroundings. Look beforecrossing any intersection to ensure drivers see you. Don’t take chances. Be especially aware of cars turning into the intersection. Do not be distracted bythe bus or taxi you are about to catch. When walking refrain from using anydevice that will impair your hearing, like an IPod or cell phone, or anythingthat creates a visual distraction, such as text messaging. Ensure you have agood range of vision. Hoodies, sunglasses, ball caps and anything else that mayaffect your peripheral vision can be a risk factor for pedestrians. Wear brightclothing. Dressing in dark clothing makes you almost invisible at night. Most ofall, be careful.
Chief Armand La Bargewould also like to remind drivers that traffic safety is everybody’sresponsibility. He urges motorists to use caution when approaching intersectionsand crosswalks. “Watch for pedestrians who may be walking against their signalor those who may require extra time to cross,” said Chief La Barge. “If trafficin other lanes is stopped or slowing at a green light, proceed cautiously asthose drivers may see something you cannot. Even with the right of way, safedrivers drive defensively.”
For more information,contact the York Regional Police Traffic Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7703, byemail at traffic@yrp.ca, or visit our website at www.yrp.ca .
