News release - Barrie Police Sevice and the City of Barrie
Late last week, the Barrie Police Service responded to five motor vehicle collisions involving pedestrians within a 36-hour period. In one of these collisions, the involved pedestrian sustained serious injuries and was transported to a Toronto area trauma centre where they are continuing to receive treatment for serious life-threatening injuries.
“Although these collisions remain under investigation, it is important for all users of our roads to recognize that road safety is shared responsibility, and we must work together to ensure the safety of everyone who uses our city streets” states Acting Barrie Chief of Police Robert Burke.
“Pedestrian safety is of great concern for myself and Council, especially in areas where children walk and play,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall. ”I look forward to working collaboratively with the Barrie Police to encourage heightened caution from both pedestrians and drivers on our roads. By prioritizing safety, and the promotion of diligently adhering to traffic regulations, we can establish a community where everyone can safely and securely navigate our streets.”
When serious motor vehicle collisions occur, police are occasionally required to close streets or the involved road, so that the necessary investigations can be safely conducted. These closures allow trained collision investigators to gather evidence from the roadway and through their specialized training, this can help them determine why the collision occurred.
Please remember, that when a serious motor vehicle collision occurs, patience, understanding and a calm approach will help every motorist navigate any unexpected detour and hopefully, without too much inconvenience, get you back onto your intended route of travel.
The following are safety tips for both drivers and pedestrians:
For pedestrians:
- Be predictable and visible.
- Do not place yourself in the path of oncoming traffic.
- Cross only at traffic signals, crosswalks, and stop signs.
- Look all ways before crossing.
- Walk, don’t run, across intersections.
- Only cross when you have enough time to safely do so.
- Try to make eye contact with drivers before stepping off the curb. Just because you see the car, doesn’t mean that the driver sees you!
Source: https://www.simcoemuskokahealth.org/Topics/RoadSafety/Pedestrians.aspx
For drivers
- Pay special attention to pedestrians especially when turning
- Watch for children. Drive slowly and cautiously through school zones, residential areas or any other area where children could be walking or playing.
- Watch for Community Safety Zone signs that indicate areas of special concern to the public
- Be patient, especially with seniors or pedestrians with disabilities who need more time to cross the road
- Drive carefully when you are near streetcars or bus stops where passengers get on and off, and be sure to yield and stop when required
Source: https://www.ontario.ca/page/driving-near-pedestrian-crossovers-and-school-crossings
Banner image via the Barrie Police Service
