Over the past several weeks, HRM Partners in Policing have responded to a number of motor vehicle-pedestrian collisions. Sadly, one was fatal.
Halifax Regional Police and Halifax District RCMP remind motorists and pedestrians alike that everyone has a responsibility to share the road.
With the Canada Games upon us, there will be increased pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the area, particularly around the Games’ venues. HRM Partners in Policing ask everyone to be extra vigilant and offer the following safety tips to help keep our roads safe:
Pedestrians:
– Look both ways before crossing the street. Stop at the edge of the street, look left, then right, then left again before you cross. Continue looking for traffic as you cross the street.
– Make eye contact with drivers before you set foot into the roadway. Don’t walk out in front of vehicles assuming that drivers will see you.
– Activate the overhead signals where available. This will help drivers see you and realize that you are about to cross.
– Never dart out into traffic between parked cars. Check for vehicles’ reverse lights when walking past driveways or in parking lots.
– If there’s no sidewalk, walk on the left, facing traffic. Walk in single file and don’t play on the side of the road.
– Make sure you can see drivers, and they can see you. Ensure your vision is not impaired by your hat, hood or umbrella. It’s crucial that you can see where you’re going and be able to make eye contact with drivers.
– Be seen! Wear brightly coloured and/or reflective clothing, especially at night or in poor weather.
Drivers:
– Yield the right of way to pedestrians in a crosswalk, whether it’s marked or unmarked. There’s a crosswalk at every intersection whether it’s marked or not.
– Be especially alert when approaching a crosswalk. Make eye contact with pedestrians to let them know you realize they’re going to cross. Watch out for pedestrians who may walk into the crosswalk without making eye contact.
– Do not pass stopped cars at a crosswalk – it’s against the law!
– Follow posted speed limits, particularly in school zones and near playgrounds.
– Ensure your windshield is clean, particularly if you’re driving into the sun. If the sun is in your eyes, wear sunglasses and keep an eye out for people who may cross the street.
By following these safety tips, both drivers and pedestrians can help to minimize accidents. Do your part. Stay alert and be safe!
