With winter upon us, both Stellarton and Westville Police are asking motorists and pedestrians to use caution while travelling particularly at intersections.
Safety is a two-way responsibility and both motorists and pedestrians should use caution at all times, Chief Don Hussher stated in a release on the topic.
Some cross walks are marked with white lines, but even when crosswalks are not marked the intersection is recognised as the safe location to cross and motorists must yield to the pedestrians in crossing locations, he said. When pedestrians cross at other locations they must yield to vehicles.
Most often, accidents occur when people are not being cautious.
“Pedestrians should not always assume the driver has seen them or is able to stop within a safe distance,” he stated. “Pedestrians should wait until the vehicles traveling in both directions have stopped and recognize them. Eye contact is very important.”
Drivers for their part should avoid distractions such as cell phones, reading materials and eating.
“Make all the adjustments required to operate the vehicle before you move, such as temperature control, radio volume, seat belts etc.,” Hussher advises. “Never park too close to an intersection or crosswalk in a manner that obstructs the view of pedestrians and other drivers. The law requires leaving a minimum of five meters between your vehicle and the crosswalk or intersection if there is no marked crosswalk.”
Pedestrians and drivers should keep in mind that winter driving conditions increases the stopping distance of a vehicle. Winter conditions can also hinder the ability of the driver to maintain the stability of the vehicle.
