There’s a new crosswalk design in Huron County and it’s called a “crossover”. This new design is being used in communities across Ontario to make it easier and safer for pedestrians to cross the street.
The new design standardizes the look, markings and expected use of crossovers. It also standardizes the consequence for drivers who make a crossover-related offense – up to a $500 fine and 3 demerit points. Drivers must stop at the yield line and wait until the pedestrian has finished crossing the road before proceeding.
You’ll recognize a crossover by:
- Ladder markings
- Yield line (shark teeth markings)
- A “pedestrian” sign (and depending on the community, it may or may not have a flashing light, too)
Here’s how to use them:
Drivers
- Stop behind the yield line when a pedestrian has indicated they want to cross
- Make eye contact to ensure the pedestrian sees you
- Wait until the pedestrian completely crosses the road
- Failure to give the right of way to the person wanting to cross can result in a fine up to $500 and 3 demerit points
Pedestrians
- Push the button to indicate you want to cross
- Wait for traffic to stop in both directions
- Make eye contact to ensure drivers see you
- Cross when it is safe to do so
Cyclists
- When riding with traffic, follow the rules for drivers
- When crossing, dismount and walk your bike across, following the rules for pedestrians