Durham Region reminds everyone to remain vigilant on roadways as Daylight Saving Time ends

Whitby, Ontario – Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 7, creating darker commuting hours that affect visibility on roadways. That’s why the Region of Durham is reminding drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to be vigilant and safe on the road as darkness comes earlier.

With the increase of residents staying home amid COVID-19, and many high schools in Durham ending later in the day, there are more pedestrians and cyclists out in the community during darker and less visible times.

Durham Region is offering the following tips to roadway users to improve safety for everyone.

Drivers:

• Pay special attention to crosswalks and sidewalks leading to intersections as you approach, even if you have a green light.
• Reduce your speed. According to Parachute Canada, a pedestrian struck by a car travelling at 50 kilometres per hour is at least five times more likely to be killed than a pedestrian struck at 30 kilometres per hour.
• Ensure your full headlight system is turned on.
• Double-check for pedestrians and cyclists when turning left or right.

Durham continues to take measures to reduce the number of fatal and serious-injury-causing collisions on our roads. Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras are currently operational in school zones and designated community safety zones in Durham Region. Cameras are rotated between these sites. For a list of locations in Durham Region, and to learn more about ASE, visit durham.ca/ASE.

Pedestrians:

• Always cross at an intersection where there is a traffic control device, such as a traffic control signal, stop sign or pedestrian crossover.
• Be sure that drivers see you by making eye contact with motorists before attempting to cross a road.
• Wear brightly-coloured and/or reflective clothing so that you are more visible during darker hours.
• Do not wear headphones or use your phone or other devices when crossing the road.
• Be careful and wait until traffic has come to a complete stop before you cross.

Cyclists:

• Obey all traffic laws and responsibilities as a road user.
• Turn on headlamps and taillights at least 30 minutes before sunset.
• Be visible by ensuring you have reflective gear and clothing.
• Be alert and do not wear headphones when riding.

Durham Vision Zero is a long-term plan to ensure a safe transportation system that sees no lives lost or serious injuries on Durham’s roadways. Learn more at durham.ca/VisionZero.

Quote:

“As we move into the fall season and Daylight Saving Time ends, roadways become darker and there is less visibility earlier. Our collision data shows that the highest number of pedestrian and cyclist-involved collisions take place between October and December. It is up to everyone—drivers, pedestrians and cyclists—to be aware of those you share the road with to keep everyone safe.”

-        Susan Siopis, Commissioner of the Works Department

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Read this press release on the Region of Durham's website.