The Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind the public whether you are driving or walking, to keep safety in mind.
Pedestrians who are either out walking or jogging, especially after dark or in low-light conditions, should remember the importance of being visible to traffic. Pedestrians are encouraged to wear bright or reflective clothing to increase their visibility to motorists. It is safest to walk on sidewalks, and where there are no sidewalks, always walk on the shoulder of the road facing traffic. Cyclists are reminded to stay off sidewalks.
Motorists should be observant for pedestrians at all times. At school crossings where a crossing guard is present and at pedestrian crossovers identified with specific signs, road markings and lights, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians as they cross the whole roadway. Drivers are reminded to cut the distractions, look ahead, drive within the speed limit, and allow time to react to unexpected situations.
Road safety is a shared responsibility of all road users. By working together, everyone can get home safely.
(Richard Evans)