ICBC, police say pedestrian safety a serious concern this fall as visibility worsens
By Contributor
The Insurance Corporation of BC (ICBC) and police are launching a pedestrian safety campaign in response to the sharp increase in pedestrian injuries and fatalities on the road at this time of year.
ICBC said that nearly half (43%) of crashes involving pedestrians happen between October and January as visibility and weather worsen in B.C. — an average of 1,398 crashes involving pedestrians happen between October to January, compared to 1,865 from February to September.
In the Southern Interior where, on average, 158 pedestrians are injured in 216 crashes every year.
ICBC said that distracted driving and failing to yield the right-of-way are the top contributing factors for drivers in pedestrian related crashes.
ICBC and police are asking drivers to reduce their speed when pedestrians are present, be ready to stop for pedestrians, and focus on the road.
“We all need to do our part to improve pedestrian safety on our roads this fall,” said Todd Preston, President of the BC Association of Chiefs of Police.
“The days are getting shorter which means pedestrians will be navigating roads in the dark. When driving, please take extra time to look for pedestrians, especially at intersections. As a pedestrian, use designated crosswalks, make eye contact with drivers and wear light colours and reflectors.”
ICBC and volunteers will be handing out safety reflectors throughout B.C. to help increase visibility of pedestrians for drivers.
“As the seasons change, it’s essential for drivers to adapt to reduced visibility,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“Increased rain, fog, or snow can make it more difficult to see pedestrians. This is a time when we should all slow down, stay alert, and ensure our headlights and windshield wipers are functioning properly. For pedestrians, it’s important to wear reflective clothing, use crosswalks, and remain extra cautious when crossing streets.”
Learn more with ICBC’s infographic and tips.
ICBC data based on five-year average from 2018 to 2022. Fatality data and contributing factors based on police data five-year average from 2018 to 2022. Crash data from 2020 and 2021 may be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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