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By Liam Verster

Pedestrian Safety Month

Police remind pedestrians, cyclists to be seen during fall and winter months

Oct 8, 2024 | 11:12 AM

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP reminds the public to be seen when walking through their communities.

October is Pedestrian Safety Month, and the RCMP asked pedestrians and cyclists to be aware of traffic, and also reminded motorists to share the road.

According to police, nearly half of all pedestrian involved collisions in B.C. occur between October and January, noting the weather, darkness and distractions are leading causes of these incidents.

“With the fall season bringing shorter days and darker mornings, it’s important to be extra cautious out on the roads,” Constable Chris Terleski, Media Relations Officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, said.

“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.”

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To prevent these incidents, police ask that:

Pedestrians

• Wear light coloured, reflective or lit clothing
• Cross at crosswalks, do not jaywalk and do not cross between parked cars or where visibility is reduced
• Avoid distractions and be aware of traffic before crossing the street
• Stay on sidewalks if possible or, on roads where there are no sidewalks, walk on the side facing oncoming traffic

Cyclists

• Wear reflective gear and have lights on the front and back of their bikes
• Ride in the designated bike lanes when possible and obey all rules of the road; make eye contact with motorists before crossing an intersection
• Always wear a helmet

Drivers

• Slow down in low light and poor weather conditions
• Give enough space to other road users
• Always be on the lookout for pedestrians, especially when turning and when approaching intersections
• Drive to the speed limit or to conditions
• Be cautious of pedestrians who are distracted
• Avoid distractions when behind the wheel