York Region encourages pedestrians to stay visible
York Region reminds travellers to stay visible, alert, and aware when travelling on or near roadways.
Reduced daylight can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users, especially in the evening. Rain, fog, and other seasonal weather can further reduce visibility, so everyone should take extra care.
November typically sees the highest number of pedestrian-involved collisions each year, making visibility and awareness especially important.
York Region’s Visibility Campaign supports the Vision Zero Traveller Safety Plan by encouraging travellers to take simple actions to increase visibility and contribute to safer roads for all road users.
“This time of year, when the daylight hours are reduced, unfortunately, it’s the highest occurrences of incidences with pedestrians involved in collisions, and we really want to make sure pedestrians are safe, and drivers are aware that pedestrians and cyclists are out there, said Joseph Petrungaro, York Region public works director. “(If) everybody does their part, we hopefully have a safe road network, and everybody gets home and gets to where they want to go to every day safely.”
Whether walking, cycling, taking transit or driving, everyone has a role to play in helping prevent collisions and creating safer roads. Staying visible and alert can help all travellers navigate roadways safely, particularly during low-light conditions.
“Daylight savings, and the hour that we’ve lost, that just makes it a little darker earlier, … for road safety, from a vulnerable road user, the pedestrians, cyclists, anyone that’s not in a vehicle wrapped in metal- just be more aware of your surroundings,” said Constable Todd Snooks. “Just as an example, I mean, we’ve had in the month of October alone, unfortunately, seven fatalities, three of which were pedestrians.”
York Region has set out safety tips for travellers to combat the decrease in daylight hours. The region reminds drivers to watch for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly during dawn, dusk and nighttime hours. Slow down and adjust your driving to changing road, weather, and visibility conditions.
As a pedestrian, there is much you can do to help ensure your safety. Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking, cycling, or travelling to and from transit stops; use lights when travelling in low-light conditions; and stay alert and avoid distractions when travelling near roadways.
If you are using micromobility transportation, use designated crossings/intersections and ensure you have working lights and reflectors on your travel equipment and wear bright or reflective clothing.
Road safety is a shared responsibility. Small actions can make a big difference in helping everyone arrive at their destination safely.
Be Visible. Be Seen.
Learn more about road safety and visibility tips at york.ca/RoadSafety.
Photo: YRP Constable Todd Snooks reminds residents to stay alert and avoid distractions on the roads. (Matthew Fletcher photo)