The Region of Waterloo is Considering Flashing Lights and Raised Crosswalks to Keep Pedestrians Safer

April 25, 2023, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Pedestrian safety is a crucial concern in every community, and there are many ways to ensure safer pedestrian crossings. Pedestrian safety is top of mind in the Region as an increasing number of pedestrians are being hit by drivers at crosswalks. This is due in large part to driver inattention.

The Region is now exploring ways to make pedestrians safer in the crosswalk areas. Raised crosswalks and flashing lights are two effective methods for improving pedestrian safety.

Raised Crosswalks

Raised crosswalks are a traffic calming measure that slows down vehicles and helps pedestrians to cross the road safely. These are typically constructed using concrete or asphalt and have a small rise in the middle of the crosswalk. The rise makes it more difficult for vehicles to drive quickly over the crosswalk, which helps to reduce the risk of accidents.

One of the significant benefits of raised crosswalks is that they are visually distinct from the surrounding roadway, which makes them stand out to drivers. Drivers are more likely to slow down and pay attention when approaching a raised crosswalk, which helps to reduce the risk of accidents. Raised crosswalks are especially helpful in areas with high foot traffic, such as near schools or parks, where there may be more children or elderly pedestrians.

Another advantage of raised crosswalks is that they provide a level surface for pedestrians to cross. This is particularly important for individuals with mobility issues, such as those who use wheelchairs or walkers. The level surface makes it easier for these individuals to cross the road safely, without having to navigate a curb or other obstacle.

Flashing Lights

Flashing lights are another effective method for improving pedestrian safety at crosswalks. These lights are typically installed on a pole or signpost near the crosswalk and are activated when a pedestrian presses a button to cross the road. When the lights are activated, they flash to alert drivers that there is a pedestrian crossing the road.

The primary benefit of flashing lights is that they draw attention to the crosswalk and the pedestrians using it. The flashing lights are highly visible and can be seen from a distance, which alerts drivers to slow down and watch for pedestrians. In addition, the lights provide an audible signal to pedestrians, which lets them know that it's safe to cross.

Furthermore, flashing lights are especially helpful in areas where there is low visibility, such as at night or in bad weather conditions. The bright lights can help to make pedestrians more visible to drivers, reducing the risk of accidents.

 By incorporating these features into pedestrian crossings, we can help to create safer communities for everyone.

If you or a loved one is hit by a driver while walking you should contact one of our experienced personal injury lawyers today.

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

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