Imagine the horror of driving your car and accidentally striking a pedestrian.
Or even worse, being struck by a driver while walking.
Driver-pedestrian accidents are not uncommon in the Northeast Avalon, especially this time of year when the days are short and the snow mounds are high.
Since Nov. 1, there have been 14 driver-pedestrian accidents, slightly up from 12 in 2017, according to the RNC.
“With the shorter days, pedestrians and drivers haven’t accommodated to the driving requirements for early darkness,” said RNC Acting Sgt. Karen Didham, who heads the traffic division. “Not everyone is adhering to the rules of the road.”
While the RNC could not provide statistics for the total number of driver-pedestrian accidents this year, Didham said the big difference from last year has been the seriousness of the accidents.
This year, there have been three pedestrian fatalities — a 61-year-old woman was struck on Brookfield Road at 6:45 p.m. on March 2, a 55-year-old man was struck on Ruth Avenue in Mount Pearl at 3:30 p.m. on Nov. 24 and a 63-year-old woman was struck on LeMarchant Road at 7 p.m. on Dec. 3.
All three happened when it was dark.
Didham wouldn’t discuss the details of these cases, but such incidents are alarming and serve as a reminder to both pedestrians and drivers to be extra cautious.
Pedestrians need to be aware of where to walk and when, as well as what to wear, while drivers need to be alert and watch out for pedestrians.
Didham said the Highway Traffic Act is concise when it comes to outlining what pedestrians and drivers are required to do.
For drivers, it’s key to avoid speeding and to stay focused, Didham said. Motorists should also ensure the vehicle is in good working condition with good tires. Snow should be cleared off the vehicle, especially the windows and headlights, she added.
Here are reminders for pedestrians, according to Didham:
Use crosswalks
“Sadly, a lot of the accidents (happen) within 100 metres of a crosswalk,” Didham said.
And just because there’s a crosswalk, it doesn’t give you a free pass to walk into the roadway, she said. Pedestrians must stop and ensure it’s safe before proceeding.
“Pedestrians have to give drivers ample opportunity to see them,” said Didham, adding that those approaching lighted intersections must wait for the activation sign.
In areas like Thorborn Road by the Avalon Mall, New Gower Street by Mile One Centre or Old Placentia Road in Mount Pearl, pedestrians often unsafely cross the road and stand on the median.
“You need to take the time to cross the road in its entirety from beginning to end at the crosswalks,” she said.
Wear reflective clothing
Anything that can make a pedestrian more visible is good, Didham said. Besides reflective vests, people can also purchase reflective dog leashes, a flashlight or iPhone flashlight to shine in poorly lit areas.
Didham said pedestrians should avoid routes where there may be risks at night or where sidewalks are impassible.
“We as pedestrians have a greater risk of injury, so we have to be vigilant,” said Didham, an avid walker. “We have to be responsible and make choices that are safe.”
When sidewalks are impassible, walk on the side of the road facing traffic
There will be times when sidewalks are impassible due to snow or construction or when there’s no sidewalk. According to Section 128 of the Highway Traffic Act, pedestrians must walk on the side of the road facing traffic.
“You’re able to see a vehicle as it approaches you and drivers are able to see you as they approach you,” Didham said.
When it comes to issues with snowclearing, St. John’s staff and police work well together, she said. She said the city is doing its best and remains vigilant clearing streets and sidewalks of snow.
“But in the neighbourhood, it doesn’t hurt to snow blow the area of sidewalk in front of their houses,” Didham said. “I understand people are strapped for time, but it would make it safer for everyone.”
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