Drivers and pedestrians both have rights and duties when using Ontario’s roadways. Sadly, motorists often neglect the rights of pedestrians.
Driver Duties
- If a pedestrian is already in the intersection when an amber or yellow light appears, the pedestrian must proceed to the closest sidewalk. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian and must not continue until the pedestrian has safely crossed the road.
- When a driver is about to enter an intersection with a flashing red light, drivers must come to a full stop and remain stopped until the road is clear and safe to carry on
- When a driver is about to enter an intersection with a flashing amber light, a driver must enter with caution and yield the right-of-way to any pedestrians within the crosswalks.
- Pedestrians have the right-of-way within a crosswalk (marked or unmarked) at an intersection with a stop sign, yield sign, or at an open intersection.
Quick Facts
- Statistic show that the last two weeks in November is the most dangerous time of year for pedestrians
- Nov 28th & Nov 30th average 11.8 pedestrian accidents for each day, nearly twice the average of 6.1 pedestrian accidents per day.
- Sunlight is thought to be a factor in these alarming statistics. In the last weeks of November, the setting of the sun moves toward 4:45 pm and 5:15 pm, thus coinciding with rush hour and the evening commute.
- Toronto has nearly 8,000 kilometers of sidewalks. Even with this staggering number, Toronto still struggles with sidewalk continuity in many areas. When sidewalks are missing, pedestrians have little choice but to walk on the shoulder of the road or blvd.
- Increased separation between drivers and pedestrians is needed in the city of Toronto
Resources
- The Toronto Pedestrian Committee pushes for better pedestrian safety and improved pedestrian friendly infrastructure.
- Pedometer is a newsletter produced by the City of Toronto. The goal is to inform, educate, inform, and bring awareness to pedestrians matters within the city of Toronto.
DRIVERS
The law requires that drivers exercise care for the safety of pedestrians wherever they might cross the roadway. Drivers should reduce their speeds and be prepared to stop suddenly for children whom might suddenly enter their path. Always give pedestrians right-of-way within crosswalks and never pass a car that has stopped for a pedestrian.
In a case where a pedestrian is struck by a car, there’s an extremely high potential for injury or death. Regardless of whether or not the car was traveling at a low rate of speed. Children and the elderly are especially at risk for pedestrian accidents.
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a pedestrian accident, you might be eligible to obtain compensation for your personal injuries.