York Region traffic safety partners joined together to remind residents to stay visible
The month of November has the highest number of pedestrian-involved collisions every year due to shorter daylight hours.
On Friday, November 8, York Region traffic safety partners, including York Regional Police, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) and the Ministry of Transportation, joined together in the Town of Newmarket to share the following tips with motorists and pedestrians to Be Visible, Be Seen.
When it is dark or there are poor weather conditions, travellers have reduced visibility and are at greater risk. Tips to stay safe include:
Tips for motorists
- Avoid distractions and be more aware of pedestrians and cyclists
- Slow down during dangerous weather conditions and poor visibility
- Make sure headlights are on when daylight is fading and windshield wipers are working
- Approach intersections with caution and look for pedestrians crossing
Tips for pedestrians
- Avoid distractions and make eye contact with drivers crossing the street
- Avoid wearing dark clothing in the dark
- Wear reflective clothing and walk with a flashlight to be more visible to motorists
- Cross streets at designated cross walks or intersections
York Region and our traffic safety partners have a collective commitment to safety, health and well-being of all within our communities. A multi-year visibility campaign will help engage and educate residents and travellers to support a reduction in collisions on our roads.
York Regional Council approved the York Region Vision Zero Traveller Safety Plan to reduce severe collisions and enhance traveller safety. The plan, based on global road safety best practices, aims to cut severe collisions (those causing serious injury or death) by 10% from 2024 to 2028. It includes over 100 countermeasures such as automated speed enforcement, intersection improvements, pedestrian and cycling measures, red light cameras, school zone speed reductions, speed feedback boards and roundabouts.
