Driving Tips > Safety Columns
Use crosswalks safely
Warm weather, rising gas prices, spring fitness… they’ve all contributed to putting more pedestrians on the streets. It’s a good time to review the rules and etiquette of crosswalks, for both drivers and pedestrians.
Extra vigilance
As a driver, be extra vigilant when you’re approaching a crosswalk. Reduce speed, and prepare to stop when the overhead lights start flashing. Stopping is mandatory.
Wait until the pedestrians have reached the other side
of the road, or the median if there is one, before driving away. Before you
go, make a quick check in both directions to make sure no one else has entered
the crosswalk.
If the crosswalk is on the other side of the intersection, stop well back so that cross traffic can get through.
No assumptions
As a pedestrian, even though you have the right of way, don’t assume all vehicles are going to stop. Make sure they do before you step out into the crosswalk.
“Activate the lights, hold out your arm… and pause for a second to make sure vehicles are stopping,” says Lou Gervino, Manager of Driver Education at Manitoba Public Insurance. “Make eye contact with drivers, if possible, so you can be sure they have seen you.
“Communication, courtesy and common sense are keys to good driving – and smart walking.”
For more information, watch The 60-Second Driver on CTV, or visit the following sections on this website:
- Crosswalks in The 60-Second Driver
- Pedestrian Safety in Road Safety
- You can access a 60-Second video on Crosswalks directly
