ICBC is warning pedestrians and motorists to be extra careful during the fall and winter months.
According to the provincial insurance company, pedestrian injuries nearly double this time of year. ICBC has launched a month-long safety campaign that hopefully results in saving pedestrians and motorists from colliding.
The spike in crashes during this period can be attributed to shorter days, poor visibility and terrible weather conditions. Rain, snow and fog can all be expected throughout the fall and winter months.
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ICBC says that on average, 1,120 pedestrians are injured every year in B.C. from October to January. This is compared to 640 people injured between May and August.
Taking it a little further, ICBC adds that accidents involving pedestrians most often happen at intersections, from 3:00 p.m. to 6 p.m., and on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
ICBC says that the top contributing factors to these accidents are the weather, distracted drivers and failing to yield the right of way.
The provincial crown corporation and community policing volunteers will be handing out reflectors and safety tips in high pedestrian traffic areas across the province to help pedestrians stay visible.
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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.
- Remember, if a vehicle is stopped in front of you or in the lane next to you, they may be yielding for a pedestrian.
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 cross at designated crosswalks and follow pedestrian signs and traffic signals.
- Make eye contact with drivers, as it’s hard to see pedestrians when visibility is poor in fall in 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.
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