'Tis the season for pedestrian crashes warns ICBC
50 per cent of all pedestrian fatalities and crashes happen in the 4 months between October and January
Less daylight, bad weather and electronic device distraction are a fatal combination for B.C. pedestrians at this time of year.
ICBC says that's why its latest safety campaign is aimed at reminding drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to be more prepared and aware.
Typically, the insurance corporation says, almost 50 per cent of all pedestrian fatalities and crashes happen in the four months between October and January.
On average, there are 59 pedestrians killed and 2,300 injured in crashes every year in B.C.
Not surprisingly, about 70 per cent of pedestrian crashes take place at intersections.
We’re urging pedestrians and drivers to do their part to keep our roads safe <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sharetheroadBC?src=hash">#sharetheroadBC</a> <a href="https://t.co/yyqY4W19r8">https://t.co/yyqY4W19r8</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/bcRCMP">@bcRCMP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCGovNews">@BCGovNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/iY2KXsX7Go">pic.twitter.com/iY2KXsX7Go</a>
—@icbcICBC says pedestrians can safeguard themselves by making eye contact with drivers and by wearing bright and reflective clothing.
They are also advised to not wear headphones and resist the temptation to text or use their cell phones.
Drivers are reminded to yield the right of way to pedestrians and to slow down and be extra cautious at intersections.