Steep Crosswalk Fines

May 24, 2017

Grande Prairie RCMP:Steep Fines for Motorists Failing to Follow Crosswalk Laws

 

Grande Prairie, AB : On May 19th, 2017 the Grande Prairie Municipal Traffic unit conducted pedestrian and crosswalk enforcement.  As a result, several motorists were charged with failing to yield to a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk.

 

Grande Prairie RCMP would like to remind the community of the following:

 

For Drivers:

  • When approaching an intersection or crosswalk be alert for pedestrians.
  • Watch for vehicles stopped or slowing in the lane next to yours. They may be yielding to a pedestrian.
  • Stay alert and slow down on residential streets and through school and playground zones.

 

For Pedestrians:

  • POINT, PAUSE, and PROCEED. Be alert at intersections and always look out for danger when crossing the street
  • Always use crosswalks and pedestrian-activated signals when they are available and cross only at intersections if they are not.
  • Never jaywalk. Drivers are not anticipating pedestrians crossing in the middle of the street so they may not have enough time to avoid hitting you.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before you cross the street.
  • Be seen! Wear bright colored or reflective clothing especially when walking in low light or poor weather conditions.
  • Walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk off the road, facing traffic, staying as far away from the vehicles as possible.
  • If you are impaired, seek assistance and alternative transportation. Alcohol is often a factor in serious pedestrian collisions. On average over one-third of pedestrians in fatal crashes and 15 per cent in injury crashes had consumed alcohol prior to the collision.
  • Pay attention! Remove headphones; put away cell phones or other electronic devices when crossing the street.
  • Abide by traffic signs and signals.

The penalty for failing to yield to a pedestrian carries a $776.00 fine and 4 demerit points.

 

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Media Contact:

Cpl. Shawn Graham

NCO i/c Community Policing

RCMP Grande Prairie Detachment

(780) 830-5734

(780) 933-9822