When it comes to road safety, everyone, from pedestrians to drivers to cyclists, plays a part. With little ones back to school and as daylight savings time approaches we all need to adjust to darker mornings and shorter days, as our diligence on the road may be compromised.
Even if we are alert and well rested, we can’t guarantee that our fellow motorists and pedestrians are. To enhance the safety of everyone on the road, we can take certain extra precautions to make our roads as safe an environment as possible for all travelers.
For Drivers
During the day:
- Create a distraction-free environment in your vehicle before you drive.
- Refrain from using cruise control in winter.
- Know what to do when an emergency vehicle approaches.
At night:
- Be extra aware of braking distance at night.
- Properly working lights are imperative to your visibility.
- If you find yourself becoming drowsy when driving at night, pull over to the side of the road or into a parking lot for a nap.
- Never take the risk of getting behind the wheel after you’ve been drinking.
For Pedestrians:
- Dress to be seen, especially at night and on low-visiblity winter days. Wear brightly coloured clothing or carry a flashlight at night and when walking in storms
- Cross the street at marked crosswalks or traffic lights, not in the middle of the block or between parked cars. Do not cross once the “don’t walk” signal begins to flash
- When crossing the street, take out your headphones and refrain from texting so you can be alert to oncoming traffic.
- Be extra cautious when boarding or exiting the bus or streetcar, as cars may not stop as they’re required to
- Teach your kids to adopt good road safety practices, such as recognizing traffic safety signals and the signals of a crossing guard.
For Cylists:
- Cyclists, like motorists, must ride on the right side of the road (except when two-way designated bicycle paths are in place), be sober, stop for stop signs and red lights, and signal turns
- Be seen and heard, no matter what time of day it is. Bikes are required to be equipped with a working bell or horn. Reflectors, a front light, and a strip of reflective tape on your backback or jacket can make you more visible to other road users
- Always ride defensively, anticipating the actions of other road users.
Being aware of potential dangers on the road is a responsibility for all who share it. Commit to being a responsible driver, pedestrian, or cyclist.
Sent on behalf of your Safety and Security Committee
Wills Creek| Creating Community, Experience the Difference.