MONTREAL – The city’s police department kicked off its pedestrian safety campaign a little early this year, mainly due to the warm weather.
The not-so-freezing temperatures have drawn out both winter warriors and sun seekers, leading to a higher number of pedestrians and cyclists on the roads.
The campaign usually starts in March or April, and police officers set themselves up at high-traffic intersections throughout the city to talk to passersby.
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They remind pedestrians to keep their eyes off their phones and to always pay attention to the possible dangers around them.
Police said most incidents involving pedestrians are due to them not being seen properly by motorists.
So far this year, three pedestrians have died in road accidents; at the same time last year, there was one.
Montreal police said it wants focus on discourage jaywalking; it’s also asking pedestrians to make eye contact with motorists when crossing the street.