ATIKOKAN, ON – The Rainy River District Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind motorists and cyclists that they have a responsibility to ensure they stop at crosswalks when pedestrians are present. Pedestrian crosswalks allow safe crossings for pedestrians at specific points on a roadway. These points are identified with signs as well as markings on the road. It is the duty and responsibility of every motorist and cyclist to allow a pedestrian the right of way at a pedestrian crosswalk.
From Ontario’s Ministry of transportation website:
As of January 1, 2016, drivers – including cyclists – must stop and yield the whole roadway at pedestrian crossovers, school crossings and other locations where there is a crossing guard.
These new rules do not apply to pedestrian crosswalks at intersections with stop signs or traffic signals, unless a school crossing guard is present.
Only when pedestrians and school crossing guards have crossed and are safely on the sidewalk can drivers and cyclists proceed.
Drivers will be fined $150 to $500 and 3 demerit points for offences at pedestrian crossings, school crossings and at crosswalks where there are traffic signals. The maximum fine for running a red light – a practice that puts pedestrians at risk – is $200 to $1000.
Fines are doubled in Community Safety Zones, near schools and public areas. These areas are clearly marked with signs.
For more information about driver and pedestrian responsibility, visit: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/pedestrian-safety.shtml
