SURREY RCMP are reminding the public to be vigilant on the roads following three recent serious collisions, two of which involved pedestrian fatalities.
In just under 48 hours, Surrey RCMP responded to three serious motor vehicle collisions involving pedestrians. Two people died, and a third person is currently in the hospital in critical condition, with life-threatening injuries.
Surrey RCMP say that at this time of year road conditions can be challenging for all road users. Low light conditions combined with fog and rainfall creates poor visibility for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
They are urging all drivers to slow down and drive appropriately for current conditions, and are reminding pedestrians to increase their visibility by wearing bright colours or reflective materials.
More tips for improving pedestrian road safety include:
* Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. Do not assume a driver has seen you.
* Always use a crosswalk.
* Walk on the inside edge of the sidewalk so you are further away from traffic.
* If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles.
* Make sure you can hear and see oncoming cars. Remove your headphones and your hood when crossing the street.
* Always look for signs that a vehicle is about to move (rear lights, exhaust smoke, sound of motor, wheels turning).
Drivers can improve road safety by including these practices:
* Vehicles should have their lights on to increase visibility, regardless of the time of day.
* When approaching an intersection always scan right and left for pedestrians before continuing through.
* When operating a vehicle, be cautious of pedestrians who may be distracted or unaware of their surroundings (texting, on the phone, headphones in, umbrella or hood blocking their vision).
* Obey the speed limit and drive for the conditions.
“We all have a role to play in making our streets safer for all road users,” says Cpl. Elenore Sturko, Surrey RCMP Media Relations Officer. “With darker days and inclement weather, combined with the busy holiday season, we encourage you to give yourself extra time to get where you need to be and stay alert.”
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