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Crosswalk in winter (Stock Image ID 132910139 © Edgars Sermulis | Dreamstime.com)
By Liam Verster
Avoid Pedestrian Collisions

Pedestrian collision risks increase in winter months: ICBC

Oct 5, 2022 | 7:00 AM

Pedestrians and motorists are advised to be more cautious heading into the winter months.

The Insurance Corporation of B.C. (ICBC) states that, on average, pedestrian collisions increase 54 per cent in B.C. between October and January.

On average, 52 pedestrians are killed and another 2,000 are injured in winter collisions each year in B.C. Those include 200 collisions resulting in 170 pedestrian injuries in the Southern Interior.

In an effort to avoid these collisions, the Crown Corporation is encouraging both drivers and pedestrians take steps to prevent incidents.

Drivers are asked to avoid distractions, which is one of the main causes of pedestrian collisions; to yield to pedestrians near crosswalks, transit stops and before turning through intersections; to drive to conditions; and to take extra time to scan their surroundings.

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Pedestrians, meanwhile, are encouraged to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road; to only cross at designated crosswalks; to avoid walking on the road in poorly lit areas; and to be visible with bright or reflective clothing.

ICBC and community policing volunteers will be handing out reflectors and providing safety tips in high pedestrian traffic areas across B.C. during the winter months.

by Liam Verster
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