"STEP UP and BE SAFE" pedestrian campaign, Monday, November 6, 2017 through Sunday, November 12, 2017

"STEP UP and BE SAFE" pedestrian campaign, Monday, November 6, 2017 through Sunday, November 12, 2017

Sunday, November 5, 2017 - 5:14 PM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

Improving road safety and traffic flow for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists, is one of our goals in support of the Service priority and commitment to safe communities and neighbourhoods. This initiative is part of the City of Toronto - Vision Zero Road Safety Plan. Vision Zero is a comprehensive five-year (2017-2021) action plan focused on reducing traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries on Toronto's streets. The plan prioritizes the safety of our most vulnerable road-users through a range of initiatives.

The “STEP UP and BE SAFE” pedestrian campaign will begin on Monday, November 6, 2017 and conclude on Sunday, November 12, 2017. November, the month that daylight savings time is introduced, has traditionally been the month when pedestrians are involved in the most collisions. The Toronto Police Service will continue to be diligent and promote education initiatives and associated enforcement strategies to enhance pedestrian safety within our communities.

Collision analysis has shown that pedestrian fatalities represent approximately 60% of yearly traffic fatalities in Toronto. A total of 28 pedestrians have lost their lives this year. This represents over 57% of the total of all traffic fatalities in Toronto so far this year. Seniors, in particular, are among the most vulnerable sector of road-users. To date, there have been 13 senior pedestrian fatalities representing 46% of pedestrian fatalities in 2017.

All police officers and Parking Enforcement Officers will be paying particular attention to those motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians who commit offences in the vicinity of pedestrian crossovers, crosswalks, intersections, school zones (particularly primary schools) and crossing areas frequented by seniors. Pedestrians are encouraged to avoid using distracting electronic devices when about to interact with vehicular traffic.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Caroline de Kloet, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clint Stibbe, Traffic Services