The slower you go, the more time you both have.

To kick-off two weeks of traffic safety education, The City of Calgary is celebrating both the UN Global Road Safety Week  (May 4 to 10) and National Road Safety Week (May 12 to 18).

 

As the weather warms and more people are on the roads, including more children and pedestrians; The City of Calgary is reminding motorists to slow down and watch for children, especially near schools and playground zones. 

 

Follow these tips to increase safety while driving or walking.

 

Tips for motorists

• Stop for all pedestrians crossing in a crosswalk – it's the law.
• Ensure proper visibility of your vehicle. Make sure your windshield and headlights are clean and don't obstruct your view.
• Drive at a safe speed and be aware of pedestrian activity around you.
• Never pass a vehicle at a crosswalk.
• Wait until the pedestrian has completely cleared the intersection before proceeding.
• Make eye contact.
• When turning left at an intersection, check to your left to make sure there are no pedestrians.
• Don't park within five metres of a marked crosswalk or intersection to maintain clear visibility.
• When turning right, check both ways to ensure there are no pedestrians nearby.

Tips for pedestrians

• Ensure you are crossing the street safely.
• Use the Point, Pause and Proceed method to make motorists aware you are trying to cross the street.
• Wear light-coloured clothing and reflective devices so you are visible to motorists.
• Never jaywalk between intersections or against a signal.
• Understand and follow signals.
• Research indicates that children under the age of nine should always be accompanied by a responsible adult or elder.

Follow @yyctransportation for more tips to keep you safe on Calgary streets this spring.