Photo: Vernon RCMP

October is pedestrian safety month, North Okanagan RCMP remind residents.

Nearly half of all pedestrian-involved collisions in B.C. occur between October and January. Weather, distracted driving or pedestrians, and failure to yield are the leading causes.

“With the days becoming shorter, we are experiencing more darkness during our daily commutes, increasing the risk of pedestrian collisions,” says Const. Chris Terleski.

“These collisions frequently occur when drivers are turning at intersections or when a pedestrian is jaywalking, wearing dark clothing, or not paying attention. We need to prioritize pedestrian safety and do everything we can to prevent someone from becoming seriously injured, or killed.”

Vernon RCMP offer these tips for drivers and pedestrians:

Pedestrians:

• Be bright. Wear light coloured, reflective or lit clothing whenever possible
• Be predictable; cross at crosswalks, do not jaywalk, and follow pedestrian signs and traffic signals
• Pay attention. Put your devices down, remove earbuds, watch for vehicles
• Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers
• Walk on sidewalks if available. If there’s no sidewalk, always make sure you’re walking towards oncoming traffic

Drivers:

• Avoid distractions, focus on the road and leave your phone alone while driving
• Drive with your lights on to increase visibility, regardless of the time of day
• Scan for pedestrians at all times, especially when approaching and turning at intersections
• Be cautious of pedestrians who may be distracted, jaywalking, or unaware of their surroundings (texting, on the phone, wearing headphones)
• Obey the speed limit and drive relative to road conditions – not to avoid tickets but to avoid tragedy