Slow down and watch for pedestrians
School is just around the corner and that means slowing down in school zones and keeping an eye out for young pedestrians. The Town of Tillsonburg would also like to take this opportunity to remind you how to use a Pedestrian Crossover.
What is a Pedestrian Crossover?
A pedestrian crossover is a designated crossing area that allows pedestrians to safely cross the road where vehicles must yield to the pedestrian. Pedestrian crossovers are identified by specific pavement markings and crossing signs.
Pedestrians have the right of way at pedestrian crossovers, drivers and cyclists must stop behind the yield line and wait until the pedestrian COMPLETELY crosses the road before proceeding. All road users must obey pedestrian crossover rules, laws are in effect around-the-clock.
It is important that drivers, cyclists and pedestrians each know their role when approaching a pedestrian crossover.
Responsibilities of Drivers
- Be prepared to stop for pedestrians
- Stop behind the yield line
- Make eye contact to ensure pedestrian sees you
- Wait until pedestrian completely crosses road before proceeding
- Do not pass another stopped vehicle
Responsibilities of Pedestrians
- Push button for flashing lights
- Indicate intention to cross
- Wait for traffic to stop
- Make eye contact to ensure driver sees you
Responsibilities of Cyclists
- When riding with traffic, follow rules for drivers
- When crossing, follow rules for pedestrians; dismount and walk your bike across
Fines and Penalties
Drivers and cyclists must yield to pedestrians when the crossover is activated by stopping behind the pavement markings and waiting until pedestrians have completely crossed the road before proceeding. Failing to do so could result in a fine of up to $1,000 and four (4) demerit points.
Crossover Locations
- Broadway at Glendale Dr.
- Lisgar Ave. at Devonshire Ave.
- Tillson Ave at Elgin Street
- Quarter Town Line (at Veterans Walkway)
- Quarter Town Line (near Westfield Public School)
- Quarter Town Line (near Monsignor O'Neil School)
- Quarter Town Line (near South Ridge Public School)
- Tillson Ave at Fourth Street
- Wilson Ave. (at Veterans Walkway)
What's the difference between a crosswalk and a pedestrian crossover?
Crossover: a pedestrian crossing where signs, pavement markings—and in some cases poles, flashing beacons above the signs and pedestrian push buttons—alert drivers to come to a stop.
- Motorists need to wait until the person reaches the other curb before proceeding.
Crosswalk: is used at stop signs and traffic lights. Crosswalks often have a white walking symbol and a flashing orange hand.
- Motorists DO NOT need to wait until the person reaches the other curb before proceeding.