Drivers urged to watch for pedestrians

Both drivers and pedestrians are encouraged to be extra cautious as daylight hours decrease and the weather worsens.

Almost double the number of pedestrians are injured in crashes from October to January and are particularly high between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on workdays when most people are commuting home from work and school, according to a statement by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia.

“Please focus on the road and leave your phone alone,” said Lindsay Matthews, ICBC’s interim vice-president responsible for road safety. “It’s time we all do our part to create a safer driving culture in B.C.”

Drivers should also 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.

Walkers, meanwhile, should never jaywalk and always be careful at intersections. Watch for drivers turning left or right through the crosswalk and remove your headphones and take a break from your phone while crossing the road.

It also helps to 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.

And be as reflective as possible to make it easier for drivers to see you in wet weather, at dusk and at night.