Once again . . . here's how to safely use our new pedestrian crossovers

NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF SAULT STE. MARIE
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With the warmer weather, and markings clearly identified, the City of Sault Ste. Marie and Sault Ste. Marie Police Service remind motorists, cyclists and pedestrians of the importance of obeying crossover treatments.

The new crossovers utilize ladder pavement markings to identify the crossing area, outline a clear place for motorists and cyclists to stop and provide roadside signs, flashing lights and overhead signage. When approaching the crossover, motorists and cyclists must come to a complete stop when pedestrians push the button to indicate they want to cross the road. All traffic must remain stopped until pedestrians reach the sidewalk on the opposite side of the road. Pedestrians must cross only at marked crossovers and wait for traffic to stop before crossing. If a vehicle proceeds to drive directly behind a pedestrian as they are walking across the road, this would be an offense under the Highway Traffic Act and motorists can be charged.

The penalties for drivers who endanger pedestrians include fines of $365 and four demerit points for drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians at crossovers. Both motorists and cyclists will face the same penalties.

Any pedestrian who leaves the curb or other place of safety at a pedestrian crossover and walk, run or move into the path of a vehicle in a manner that is impracticable for the driver to stop, may receive a fine up to $50.

Cyclist must dismount their bicycle before crossing at a crossover location. Cyclists are subject to similar fines as pedestrians.

Current pedestrian crossovers locations include Queen Street East at Churchill Boulevard and Wellington Street West at Beverly Street. Two additional locations will be installed later this year that include St. Georges Avenue near St. Basil Catholic School and Bay Street at Spring Street.

For more information visit here or contact the City’s Engineering and Construction department at 705-574-1016.

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