Pedestrian safety reminder

October is pedestrian safety month and the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP wants to remind motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists that keeping our roads safe is a shared responsibility.

Nearly half of all pedestrian involved collisions in British Columbia occur between October and January with weather, darkness, and distractions being the leading causes.

With the fall season bringing shorter days and darker mornings, it’s important to be extra cautious out on the roads, states Constable Chris Terleski, Media Relations Officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. The change in season brings with it an increased risk of pedestrian and cyclist involved collisions. More often, these collisions occur at intersections when drivers are turning, pedestrians are jaywalking, or road users are wearing dark clothing or not paying attention. We’re hoping this reminder will help prevent someone from becoming seriously injured or even killed.

Cyclists

• Wear reflective gear and use lights (both front and rear) to stay visible;
• Ride in designated bike lanes whenever possible and obey all traffic signals;
• Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before crossing intersections;
• Always wear a helmet.

Pedestrians

• Be bright. Wear light coloured, reflective or lit clothing whenever possible;
• Be predictable; cross at crosswalks, do not jaywalk or cross between parked cars where visibility is reduced;
• Stay alert, avoid distractions like phones, and make sure vehicles come to a stop before crossing;
• Walk on sidewalks if available. If there’s no sidewalk, always make sure you’re walking towards oncoming traffic.

Drivers

• Slow down in low light conditions and poor weather;
• Be aware of cyclists and give them enough space when passing;
• Scan for pedestrians at all times, especially when approaching and turning at intersections;
• Be cautious of pedestrians who may be distracted, jaywalking, or unaware of their surroundings (texting, on the phone, headphones in);
• Obey the speed limit and drive relative to road conditions – not to avoid tickets but to avoid tragedy.