Modern Mississauga and the City of Mississauga have come together to present an ongoing series called “Ask the City.” We’ll share relevant information here and answer your questions about our city.
Today’s question is about safety tips everyone can follow when using roadways

What can we do as a community to help prevent collisions in Mississauga?

Did you know that according to Peel Regional Police, 47 per cent of collisions between pedestrians and vehicles happen when drivers are making turns at intersections while pedestrians are crossing with the right-of-way?
In Mississauga, we want to protect everyone’s right to safe mobility.

In order to do this, it’s up to everyone to be aware of their surroundings and follow the rules of the road. October is Pedestrian Safety Month – a provincially-recognized month that raises awareness and proactively addresses pedestrian safety issues for all road users. The ultimate goal is to prevent collisions and deaths on the road in Mississauga achieved through the City’s commitment to achieving Vision Zero.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are driving less, but walking or cycling more in our neighbourhoods. As services begin reopening, people are heading back to work and students are back to school. This means increased traffic and busier streets with more road users. The City reminds the community that it is up to all of us to ensure that Mississauga’s roadways are safe at all times – regardless of how you choose to travel.

Here are a few simple actions you can do to stay safe and help prevent collisions:

When walking or cycling:

· Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before you proceed

· Avoid distractions like texting, talking on your cellphone and wearing headphones when crossing the street

· After dark, drivers cannot see people in dark clothing until it is too late. Be bright at night; wear reflective materials or lights when walking (and cycling) at night, dawn and dusk.

When driving:

· Look for pedestrians, especially when turning left or right. Don’t just look in front of you. Check the entire crosswalk for pedestrian and cyclists.

· Drive within the posted speed limits and follow all traffic signs and signals

· Be aware and follow slower speed limits in school zones and in neighborhoods where children are present and sometimes unpredictable

· Never assume a pedestrian has seen you! Always make eye contact and confirm with pedestrians that they know you’re yielding the right of way or turning.

· Be more cautious near transit stops and stations. They are locations of high pedestrian activity that can be unpredictable.

For more information about pedestrian safety and road safety tips, visit:

mississauga.ca/services-and-programs/transportation-and-streets/traffic/pedestrian-safety/