“I never even saw them”: Watch out at intersections!
Now that active transportation is more popular than ever, CAA-Quebec recommends that motorists take their time at intersections. “I never even saw them” is such a terrible thing to have to say!
According to the Montreal police (SPVM), too many pedestrians and cyclists die or are seriously injured at intersections every year due to the dangerous behaviour of motorists.
Yet the Highway Safety Code says that drivers must yield to pedestrians and cyclists at intersections before making a turn.
This means that before turning, motorists should:
- Look in the rearview mirror
- Check blind spots
- Gauge whether there’s enough time to turn without impeding or compromising the safety of pedestrians or cyclists
Just because a road vehicle arrives at an intersection before a pedestrian or cyclist doesn’t mean that the driver doesn’t have to yield.
And drivers who jeopardize the safety of a pedestrian or cyclist are subject to a fine of $100 plus fees, as well as two demerit points on their record.
Sharing the road is not just the responsibility of motorists. SPVM, in cooperation with Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), has created a leaflet1 that clearly illustrates the rules different road users must follow.
Happy driving!
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