Police Launch Pedestrian Crossover Safety Blitz

The London Police Service (LPS) have partnered with the London-Middlesex Road Safety Committee, and Active and Safe Routes to School, to kick off a week-long safety blitz. Earlier this morning, members from the Traffic Enforcement Unit, along with Community Services officers were at the crossover located at Stoneybrook Public School, to ensure that all road users knew their roles when they encounter a Pedestrian Crossover (PXO).

Tony the Street-Wise Cat – the mascot of both the London-Middlesex Road Safety Committee and Active and Safe Routes to School, – made an appearance as well.

First installed in 2016, PXOs are primarily in neighbourhoods surrounding elementary and secondary schools, to increase pedestrian safety and demonstrate London’s commitment to road safety. There are now 89 PXOs in London, with another 23 scheduled for installation.

The LPS will be conducting an enforcement blitz at various PXO locations across the city between May 7 – 11, 2018, to encourage drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to use these crossings correctly.

Police would like to remind drivers that pedestrians have the right of way at pedestrian crossovers. Drivers and cyclists must stop behind the yield line and wait until the pedestrian completely crosses the road before proceeding. Also, remember that this is in effect 24/7 and drivers can be fined up to $500 and three demerit points for offences at pedestrian crossovers.

Some tips to remember:

Pedestrians

• Show drivers you want to cross – point with your arm

• Wait for traffic to stop

• Make eye contact to ensure driver sees you

Cyclists

• When riding with traffic follow rules for drivers

• When crossing, follow rules for pedestrians; dismount and walk your bike across

Drivers

• Be prepared to stop for pedestrians

• Stop behind the yield line (Shark’s Teeth)

• Make eye contact so the pedestrian sees you

• Wait for the pedestrian to cross completely

You can watch Tony the Street-Wise Cat’s safety videos on the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s YouTube channel:

Crossing Safely at Pedestrian Crossovers


Driving Safely at Pedestrian Crossovers

For additional information, visit www.healthunit.com or www.london.ca/crossovers