With the arrival of spring and increased pedestrian activity, the Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment of the OPP reminds drivers to yield to pedestrians.
Ontario law requires vehicles to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections with stop signs or traffic signals.
At pedestrian crossovers, drivers must remain stopped until pedestrians have fully crossed the roadway. These crossovers are marked by specific signs, pavement markings, and sometimes lights. Officers will be conducting patrols in the coming weeks to ensure compliance.
Pedestrians should remember the following:
• Cross only at a crosswalk or crossover and only when it is safe to do so.
• Do not cross when the light is red or when the do not cross sign is flashing.
• It is safer to cross when the light first turns green.
• Be aware of what is going on around you and don’t walk “distracted”
Drivers should always:
• Watch for children and be cautious during the times children are walking to and from school as well as taking extra time when traveling in and around school zones.
• Be patient as some people may require extra time when crossing roads.
• Slow down, pay attention and don’t drive distracted.
Fines for drivers that commit offences at school or pedestrian crossovers and crosswalks range from $150 to $500 as well as 3 demerit points.
Together we all can make area roadways safe.
(Written by: Richard Evans)