A new crosswalk rule in ON drivers must know to avoid penalty
A new crosswalk law in ON is in place. Article explains why confusion between crossover and crosswalk may lead to fine and demerits points. Crossover or Crosswalk? Does it differ a lot to you? Many people could use the words interchangeably in their everyday conversation. And it would not change the meaning. You can […]
A new crosswalk law in ON is in place. Article explains why confusion between crossover and crosswalk may lead to fine and demerits points.
Crossover or Crosswalk? Does it differ a lot to you?
Many people could use the words interchangeably in their everyday conversation. And it would not change the meaning.
You can still use the words interchangeably in your talk. It would not cost you money. But if you mix them up while you are driving, you may have to pay $150-$500 and get 3 demerits points. There is new rule in place with effect from January 01, 2016.
A pedestrian crossover is a pedestrian crossing facility identified by specific signs, pavement markings and overhead lights in combination with pedestrian-activated flashing beacons.
A crosswalk is a crossing location usually found at intersections with traffic signals, pedestrian signals or stop signs.
Starting January 1st, 2016, drivers (including cyclists) must stop and yield the whole roadway at:
- pedestrian crossovers; and,
- at school crossings where there is a crossing guard displaying a school crossing stop sign.
These rules apply at pedestrian crossovers identified with specific signs, road markings and lights – the new rules do not apply to pedestrian crosswalks at intersections with stop signs or traffic signals, unless a school crossing guard is present.
The phrase “yield the whole roadway†suggests that you have to wait until pedestrians have completely crossed the road.
This rule is not applicable to crosswalks at normal intersections. However, you have to adhere to existing traffic signal rules.
Fines
Drivers will be fined $150 to $500 and 3 demerit points for offences at pedestrian crossings, school crossings and at crosswalks where there are traffic signals. The maximum fine for running a red light – a practice that puts pedestrians at risk – is $200 to $1000.
Fines are doubled in Community Safety Zones, near schools and public areas. These areas are clearly marked with signs.
You can learn more detail from new traffic rule about pedestrian crossover at MTO website. The Globe and mail has nice article on new traffic rules about crossover and crosswalk.