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By Shane Clausing

STEP & BEEP

Pedestrian, crosswalk safety the focus for October STEP

Oct 3, 2020 | 7:00 AM

The City of Grande Prairie has announced its Selected Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP), and Bylaw Enforcement Education Program (BEEP) initiatives for the month of October.

As the weather changes and the days get shorter, the months STEP will be focusing on pedestrian safety at crosswalks.

“I don’t think it’s a big issue in the city, but its something we have to keep mindful of,” said Sgt. Ross Gear, with Enforcement Services for the City of Grande Prairie. “For the motorists, we are moving into that time of year where its going to be lower light conditions as we move into the fall and winter. Just be mindful of that and people commuting in the early morning hours or later at night.”

Motorists are reminded to avoid loud music and other distractions while driving, slow down around parked or stopped vehicles and stay alert and slow down on residential streets and through school zones.

Those who fail to stop for a pedestrian can face a hefty fine. Gear tells EverythingGP that failing to yield to a pedestrian at a crosswalk can result in a fine of up to $776 and four demerit points.

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Gear says he doesn’t know how many tickets were handed out last year for failing to yield to a pedestrian, but added that its not an uncommon ticket to see.

While motorists need to be cautious, Gear also mentioned that pedestrians need to keep their eyes open before and during the time they cross the road.

“Pedestrians have to take ownership as well. Even if the lighting conditions are good, don’t automatically assume that a driver has seen you. Stop, make your intentions known that you intend to cross the road and make sure that a vehicle is showing signs of stopping before you step out.”

“I encourage people to wear lighter clothing or clothing with some sort of reflection on so drivers can see while you are walking along.”

As for October’s BEEP program, Enforcement Services is focusing on Taxi Standards.

This includes making sure all licensing and items needed to operate a taxi meets or exceeds requirements.