ICBC launches pedestrian safety campaign

It could be called ironic that on the same day ICBC launches a new safety campaign, asking pedestrians to be extra vigilant at this time of year, two pedestrian-involved collisions happened.

One accident in Richmond claimed the life of an elderly man and the other, a teen in Abbotsford needed to be airlifted to hospital after being hit by a car.

It’s not surprising to see during this time of year, in particular from November to January, brings an increase of pedestrian injuries. According to ICBC, on average, 76 per cent more pedestrians are injured in crashes when conditions are dark and weather is poor compared to June to August in B.C.

“In fact across B.C. about  75 per cent of all crashes involving pedestrians occur at intersections. Distractions, failing to yield and poor weather are the main contributors for these crashes.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "In fact across B.C. about  75 per cent of all crashes involving pedestrians occur at intersections. Distractions, failing to yield and poor weather are the main contributors for these crashes."

ICBC along with TransLink, Transit Police and BC Transit have started new advertising, which is featured on SkyTrains and in buses across B.C., to reach pedestrians on transit.

In addition to advertising, ICBC and community policing volunteers will be handing out pedestrian safety reflectors and tips at events throughout B.C. Their hope is to educate pedestrians about the importance of being visible to drivers in dark, autumn conditions.

“Nearly one in five people killed in car crashes every year in B.C. are pedestrians and most of these deaths are preventable,” said Metro Vancouver Transit Police Chief Officer Neil Dubord in a statement.

“Drivers can play a key role in preventing these crashes by staying focused on the road and avoiding distractions. As a pedestrian, it’s important to make eye contact with drivers before crossing – don’t assume a driver has seen you.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Nearly one in five people killed in car crashes every year in B.C. are pedestrians and most of these deaths are preventable," said Metro Vancouver Transit Police Chief Officer Neil Dubord in a statement.</p><p>"Drivers can play a key role in preventing these crashes by staying focused on the road and avoiding distractions. As a pedestrian, it's important to make eye contact with drivers before crossing - don't assume a driver has seen you."

Some tips to drivers include:

• Be ready to yield to pedestrians
• When turning at an intersection, look twice to make sure there are no pedestrians crossing
• Give yourself extra time and space to stop in case a pedestrian suddenly crosses the street

For pedestrians, ICBC recommends:

•  Always make eye contact with drivers and don’t assume they see you
• Remove your headphones and never talk, text or use electronic devices in an intersection or while crossing
• Wear reflective clothing
• Be extra cautious at intersections

According to a new ICBC survey, 76 per cent of drivers and 83 per cent of pedestrians have said they are concerned about hitting a pedestrian or being hit by a driver in an intersection.