The Grande Prairie RCMP is reminding drivers to take extra care while driving during the latest round of winter weather, specifically, keeping intersection safety top of mind.
Constable Lindsay Ralph says it is important to stay focused and alert when approaching an intersection so motorists can be aware of what is happening around them.
“When winter hits and the snow falls, it makes the roads slippery… it could be icy or snow-covered,” she says.
“It’s important for motorists to slow things down, make sure they’re really being cognizant when they’re going through the intersections, as it might take someone longer to stop, or they might slide when taking those left-hand turns.”
Ralph says it’s equally important for pedestrians, as well as those behind the wheel, to continue to use safe practices. She says it is a joint effort between drivers and pedestrians, with both sides needing to do their part.
“We ask for pedestrians to wait for the crosswalk activated signal to indicate they can walk across, and to ensure that drivers pay attention for pedestrians, and allow them to completely cross the street and then they can proceed,” she says. “Vehicles should be yielding to pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.”
Cst. Ralph adds they are also reminding drivers that being distracted behind the wheel is never acceptable, and with less than ideal road conditions forecast for the next few days, it can create incredibly unsafe situations.
“If you do need to use a device, or tend to something, find a nice safe place to pull over, take those extra few minutes to get yourself settled, and then you can continue on your way,” she adds.