You see pedestrians when you really look for them.
That's the slogan of a campaign Insurance Corporation of British Columbia has launched heading into the most dangerous time of year for people crossing or walking alongside roads.
Nearly half (45 per cent) of all crashes with pedestrians happen between October and January, according to the insurer. Even when drivers proceed with caution, it's hard to see pedestrians when visibility is poor.
In B.C. an average 52 pedestrians were killed and more than 2,000 injured each year over the past five years. In the North Central region, the count stood at 62 pedestrians injured in 68 crashes on average each year.
"As weather conditions begin to shift and daylight hours decrease, drivers and pedestrians should use extra caution on the road," said Lindsay Matthews ICBC's vice president customer experience and public affairs.
"Crashes involving pedestrians are highest between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. every day when many of us are commuting home. Whether you're a pedestrian or a driver, always remember to scan your surroundings and avoid distractions.
"It's important we all do our part to keep our roads safe."
Distracted driving and failing to yield the right-of-way are the top contributing factors for drivers in crashes with pedestrians, with 80 per cent of crashes involving pedestrians happening at intersections.
Drivers should be ready to yield to pedestrians near crosswalks, transit stops and before turning at intersections.
Pedestrians can help stay safe by making eye contact with drivers, using designated crosswalks and watching for vehicles turning at intersections.
Both drivers and pedestrians should always avoid distractions and take extra time to scan their surroundings.
Tips for drivers:
- Focus on the road. Always leave your phone alone while driving.
- Be ready to yield to pedestrians, especially when turning at intersections and near transit stops.
- If a vehicle is stopped in front of you or in the lane next to you, they may be yielding for a pedestrian.
- Expect the unexpected, even mid-block, as pedestrians may not be crossing within a crosswalk.
Tips for safe walking:
- Be careful at intersections. Watch for drivers turning left or right through the crosswalk. Drivers may be focused on oncoming traffic and not see you.
- Always use crosswalks and follow the pedestrian signs and traffic signals.
- Make eye contact with drivers, as it's hard to see pedestrians when visibility is poor in fall and winter. Never assume that a driver has seen you.
- Remove your headphones and take a break from your phone while crossing the road.
- Be as reflective as possible to make it easier for drivers to see you in wet weather, at dusk and at night.
