End Of Daylight Saving Poses Risks For Pedestrians in Mississauga and Beyond

With the end of daylight saving this weekend, changing weather, and shorter days, pedestrian incidents tend to rise due to decreased visibility.

CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) is reminding drivers and pedestrians that road safety is everyone’s responsibility - and great care and caution should be practiced.

“During the fall and winter months it is often dark when many of us are traveling to and from work,” said CAA SCO public relations manager Kaitlynn Furse.

“It is important that motorists and pedestrians have heightened awareness of their surroundings during periods of decreased visibility, avoid distractions and be extra diligent when viewing blind spots and the road ahead.”

Motorists are reminded of the following tips:

• Always look for pedestrians crossing the road - statistics indicate the need for better attention at intersections.

• Be aware of blind spots when making turns at intersections.

• Avoid distractions inside and outside of your vehicle.

• Reduce your speed and obey speed limits in school zones and residential neighbourhoods.

• Local streets and school zones will have different types of traffic, as well as children outdoors playing, riding bikes, skateboarding, etc. Be prepared for the unexpected.

• Be cautious around stopped transit vehicles and be courteous to pedestrians with different mobility needs that may require more time.

Pedestrians are reminded to take the following precautions:

• Wear reflective clothing or accessories at night to make yourself more visible.

• Help drivers in their responsibility to look out for other road users.

• Always be aware of your surroundings, avoid distractions and be alert while crossing the street.

• Follow signals and cross at designated locations or crosswalks.

• Stop, look and listen - ensure all traffic has come to a complete stop before crossing the road.

• Make eye contact with motorists - never assume that drivers can see you or know your intentions.

CAA SCO reminds motorists that as of January 2016, drivers and cyclists must stop and yield the whole roadway at pedestrian crossovers, school crossings and other locations where there is a crossing guard on duty.