Pedestrian Posters-1Pedestrian involved traffic collisions continue to be an issue in the City of Surrey. In 2017, 40% of Surrey’s traffic fatalities involved pedestrians and 185 pedestrians were injured in motor vehicle incidents.

On February 6th, 2018 the Surrey RCMP, in partnership with the City of Surrey, ICBC, and Surrey Crime Prevention Society, will be launching a pedestrian safety campaign at high risk locations to reduce the incidents of pedestrian collisions. The campaign will remind pedestrians and drivers that pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility and to “see and be seen” on our roadways.

Surrey RCMP officers, Auxiliaries and volunteers will be distributing reflective bracelets and safety tips for pedestrians and drivers at targeted locations. There will be signage on location with pedestrian safety stats and messaging, and a social media campaign using the hashtag #SeeBeSeen. Officers will also be conducting enforcement and issuing warnings and violation tickets when applicable.

What: Pedestrian Safety Campaign Media Event
When: February 6th,, 2018 at 11:00am-1:00pm
Where: 104th Avenue and King George Boulevard
Who: Surrey RCMP, ICBC, City of Surrey, Surrey Crime Prevention Society

“The majority of our traffic incidents involving pedestrians occur when drivers are turning left at intersections or entering the flow of traffic, and when pedestrians are either jay-walking, wearing dark clothing, or not paying attention themselves,” says Cpl. Scotty Schumann. “Road safety is a shared responsibility. Staying visible and making eye contact with fellow road users is not just a tip, it could reduce your chances of sustaining serious injury or being charged with an offence.”

“Pedestrian safety is a concern at night and in wet weather for nine in 10 drivers and eight in 10 pedestrians,” says Karen Klein, local ICBC road safety coordinator.  “When driving, we need to take a break from our phones, be extra alert at intersections and be ready to yield the right-of-way. When walking, we need to help drivers see us by staying focused on the road and making eye contact with drivers.”

For more information on road safety and pedestrian tips, please visit the Surrey RCMP website.