In support of the Alberta Transportation’s Traffic Safety Plan, throughout the month of November, the Drumheller RCMP will be actively conducting enforcement associated to pedestrian safety.
    In 2014, 47.9% of the drivers involved in pedestrian casualty collisions, failed to yield the right of way to the pedestrian. Within Drumheller, this continues to be a community concern. Police wish to remind the public that both the drivers of motor vehicles and pedestrians alike have responsibilities associated to shared usage of our roadways.
    With reduced daylight and the increased likelihood of inclement weather, pedestrians are encouraged to take precautions to increase their safety. This includes wearing clothing that has reflective markings, cross roadways at marked cross walks, activating the signals at crosswalks where lights are involved, extend your arm out in the direction you wish to cross to advise drivers of your intention, pause until you have established eye contact with each driver, then proceed while maintaining a visual of traffic in each direction.
    Additionally, pedestrians are encouraged to remove earbuds of iPods, carry your skateboard and/or walk your bike to give more time to be seen while crossing the road.
    Drivers are reminded to adhere to the posted speed limit in town including playgrounds and school zones. Drivers are also reminded to ensure all equipment including lights and brakes work effectively. All motor vehicles should have good winter tires to give them the best opportunity to stop when needed. As you approach a crosswalk, be diligent to looking out for pedestrians and stop to allow them to cross.
    In addition to enforcement, Drumheller RCMP will be speaking to young people in schools to give them the tools to be more safe while crossing our streets. With Christmas just around the corner, let’s work together to ensure everyone is safe on our roads.
    Finally, drivers failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk can expect to receive a ticket that carries a fine of $776. and four (4) demerit points.