As the weather changes and daylight hours decrease, pedestrians become increasingly vulnerable. Crashes involving pedestrians rise during the fall and winter, and 69 percent of these crashes occur at intersections. Whether it’s yielding the right of way or taking extra care to be seen, sharing our roads safely is everyone’s responsibility.

Walking across the street may seem like an easy task but current police reports indicate that in 2006, over 65 pedestrians were killed and 2,500 pedestrians were injured in crashes on B.C. roads. That same year in the Lower Mainland, police reported nearly 1,800 injuries and 40 fatalities in pedestrian-related crashes.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to ensure you are seen.
• Use designated crossing points and obey pedestrian traffic signs.
• Wear bright-colored clothing or carry reflective articles, especially when walking at night.
• Always be cautious and pay attention to traffic, as drivers may sometimes disobey traffic signals or not stop.
• Look left, right and left again before stepping off the curb.

Safety Tips for Drivers

• Always yield to pedestrians.
• Be aware of pedestrians who appear indecisive or inattentive.
• Be alert to vehicles stopped in the lane next to yours. They may be yielding for a pedestrian.
• Be aware of pedestrians still attempting to cross the street on a flashing orange pedestrian signal.
• Watch out for pedestrians when backing up your vehicle.
• Always be alert for pedestrians, especially at intersections.

Learn more stats and facts in ICBC’s infographic and get more tips on icbc.com.