With the time change to Pacific Standard Time at 2 a.m. on Nov. 2, daylight hours will quickly diminish and visibility while driving will be seriously compromised, particularly when it’s raining and pedestrians are wearing dark clothing.
Twilight and sunrise are often the most difficult times for drivers to see because the sun is so low.
Safety tips
If you are a pedestrian:
• Make eye contact with approaching drivers and/or cyclists.
• Use designated crossing points and be sure all lanes of traffic have stopped before stepping out. Just because one driver stops does not mean that others will.
• Obey traffic signals – only enter the intersection if the pedestrian signal is being displayed and it is safe for you to do so.
• Walk on the left hand side of the road so you can see oncoming traffic closest to you.
• Do not presume that drivers see you – wear bright and reflective clothing at night and early morning.
• Leave your ear phones behind. Often we hear dangers before we see them.
• Even if you have the right-of-way, take the extra time to ensure you are safe. Doing so may save your life.
If you are a driver:
• Make eye contact with pedestrians.
• Yield to pedestrians who are on the roadway.
• Watch for pedestrians at intersections, especially when turning.
• Expect the unexpected – a vehicle stopping in a lane beside you may be yielding to a pedestrian crossing the road.
• Obey traffic signals.
• Slow down when approaching crowds or places where pedestrians are known to be.
