As temperatures increase, more people will be out walking and riding. SGI and law enforcement will be focusing on the safety of vulnerable road users throughout April. This will include dangerous traffic behaviours by pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, as well as dangerous actions towards them by drivers.
Police will be watching for pedestrians crossing the street before safe, cyclists disobeying traffic signs and lights, motorcyclists not wearing the proper gear or following the rules of the road. They will also be watching for drivers not sharing the road safely with vulnerable road users
“Pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists don’t have airbags to protect themselves in a collision so drivers should pay extra attention near intersections and give them the room they need to be safe,” said Earl Cameron, executive vice president of the Auto Fund. “Vulnerable road users also need to follow the rules of the road and remember they are smaller – drivers may not see them. As a vulnerable road user, even if you have the right of way, make sure drivers see you before entering their path.”
Vulnerable road uses have a higher risk of injury or death if involved in a collision with a vehicle. According to SGI’s confirmed 2015 statistics, 15 pedestrians, one cyclist and four motorcyclists were killed in Saskatchewan collisions, and 536 more people were injured.
SGI recommends the following tips to keep all road users safe:
• When you are walking, cycling or riding a motorcycle, even if you have the right of way, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before you enter their path.
• Be seen sooner by wearing bright or reflective clothing.
• Pedestrians should always cross at crosswalks, and obey the ‘Walk’ and ‘Don’t Walk’ signals.
• Cyclists should use arm signals before turning or changing lanes and wear a helmet.
• Motorcyclists should wear appropriate gear and take a safety course.
• Drivers should keep a safe distance and be courteous and cautious around vulnerable road users.
Visit SGI’s website at www.sgi.sk.ca for more information on vulnerable road users, including tips for sharing the road and guidelines around required gear for new motorcyclists. Follow SGI on Facebook and Twitter for tips on how to #TakeCareOutThere.
