We're all pedestrians
October is Pedestrian Safety Month. To mark the occasion, CAA-Quebec is calling on everyone to be cautious and look out for each other. Every day, thousands of pedestrians share public spaces with motorists, cyclists, and heavy vehicle drivers. And it's our duty as a community to ensure their safety.
It's important to remind motorists and cyclists of the importance of pedestrian crossing signs, both in urban and residential areas. When you come across a pedestrian crossing sign, it is critical to be cautious, because if a pedestrian has already stepped onto the roadway or has indicated their intention to do so, motorists and cyclists are required to stop to let them cross.
More and more municipalities are putting up rectangular rapid flashing beacons at pedestrian crossings that can be activated as needed. Failure to yield to pedestrians at a crosswalk, with or without flashing beacons, may result in a $200 to $300 fine (plus fees) for motorists and a $80 to $100 fine (plus fees) for cyclists.
 |  |
Eye contact
Regardless of whether the crosswalk is equipped with signs and lights, or whether the rectangular rapid flashing beacons are activated, pedestrians are advised to always make eye contact with approaching motorists to make sure they've been seen and that their intention to cross is clear and understood. Motorists can also confirm that they've seen the pedestrians by giving them a friendly wave letting them know they're free to cross.
Moreover, pedestrians should avoid distractions such as cellphones or headphones while crossing an intersection or a crosswalk. October is also a good time to remind pedestrians of the importance of being clearly visible at the end of the day, since the sun goes down earlier and earlier this time of year.
“A single moment of inattention can have serious consequences. We urge all road users to behave responsibly: slow down, respect pedestrian crossings, avoid distractions, and be courteous.”
André DurocherDirector, CAA-Quebec Foundation
About CAA-Quebec
CAA-Quebec offers a wide range of assistance services in a wide variety of sectors, drawing on a human approach. As a socially committed organization, CAA-Quebec strives on a daily basis to protect the interests of its members. And in keeping with its values of reliability and benevolence, it fosters responsible consumption and promotes road safety.
–30–