We are facing a road safety crisis.
Last year there was an 18% increase in pedestrians hit in crosswalks by traffic.
In January this year, two pedestrians were killed.
Safe travel by foot is a basic human need and right, but our roads and crosswalks are increasingly treacherous. We need action now to make our crosswalks and roads safe for pedestrians and our children.
We ask for the following actions to be incorporated in the road safety plan currently being developed by HRM:
- The most common type of accident is caused by traffic turning left at signalised intersections. A safe signal phase should be introduced at all signalised intersection crosswalks so pedestrians can walk without the hazard of turning traffic.
- Vision Zero methodology must be included in the road safety plan. A systematic survey of HRM's crosswalk and pedestrian safety infrastructure is needed to identify weaknesses and implement remedies such as improving lighting, crosswalk markings, and signage or road markings leading up to crosswalks.
- As an interim measure, the restrictions on crosswalk safety flags should be lifted and the city should consider permitting their use at signalised intersections, as have many other localities in America.
- HRM and HRP must work together closely to reduce impaired driving, distracted driving, parking next to crosswalks, and driving through crosswalks while pedestrians are crossing.
- HRM and HRP must introduce enforcement technology such as speed cameras and red light cameras.
- Disabled people must be considered to ensure they are able to cross safely.
- Traffic Calming policies should be reviewed urgently so that roads which lack sidewalks can be prioritised for traffic calming measures, and main roads can also become eligible for calming measures near to crosswalks or common crossing points.
- HRM should work with the Province closely and constructively to reduce speed on key roads such as Spring Garden Rd, providing local engineering data in accordance with the Province's invitation.
- HRM and HRP should work together to produce and promote clear and comprehensive information for drivers and pedestrians on crosswalk law and safety, including legal obligations.
