Police Ask Public To Stop Running Down Pedestrians

Source: OPP
Date: Wed Apr 2 05:15:45 MST 2025

(PEMBROKE, ON) – With the spring season upon us and more people walking to their destinations, the Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind drivers to yield to pedestrians. The law states that vehicles must yield the right of way to pedestrians as they cross at crosswalks at intersections with stop signs or traffic signals. At pedestrian crossovers, drivers must yield to the pedestrian until they have fully crossed the street. Pedestrian crossovers are identified with specific signs, road markings and lights.

The UOV OPP would like to remind drivers of the laws as officers will be conducting directed patrols in the coming weeks to ensure drivers and cyclists are yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks and crossovers.

Pedestrians should remember the following when crossing roads:

• Cross only at a crosswalk or crossover and only when it is safe to do so.

• Do not cross when the light is red or when the do not cross sign is flashing.

• It is safer to cross when the light first turns green.

• Be aware of what is going on around you and don’t walk “distracted”

Drivers should always:

• Watch for children and be cautious during the times children are walking to and from school as well as taking extra time when traveling in and around school zones.

• Be patient as some people may require extra time when crossing roads.

• Slow down, pay attention and don’t drive distracted.

Fines for drivers that commit offences at school or pedestrian crossovers and crosswalks range from $150 to $500 as well as 3 demerit points.

Together we all can make area roadways safe.