A document with the word caa on it.

Nov 23, 2023

7 min. read

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility—drivers, cyclists and pedestrians—especially in the winter. Whether you’re driving, walking or cycling, here are some essentials everyone should follow this winter.

A smiling person wearing a winter hat and scarf driving a car with a navigation system on the dashboard.

Drivers 

Light the way Drivers and motorcyclists should use their full lighting system 30 minutes before sunset and 30 minutes after sunrise, or in low-visibility situations.

Be on the lookout Watch for pedestrians crossing the road and yield to them at crosswalks, school crossings and crossovers. And remember to mind your blind spots when making turns at intersections.

Stay focused Minimize distractions and obey posted speed limits, especially in residential areas.

Be courteous Exercise caution around pedestrians who may take more time to cross the road.

Apply the brakes All vehicles should come to a full and complete stop at red lights and stop signs.

Rear view of a bicycle showing a seat and illuminated red tail light.

Cyclists 

Lights on Cyclists should also use proper lighting on their bikes—a white light on the front and a red light on the back—half an hour before sunset and half an hour after sunrise, as well as when it’s dark, foggy or cloudy.

Prioritize visibility Cyclists should wear bright or reflective clothing to make sure they can be seen.

Your route Cyclists should stay within bike lanes whenever possible and come to a full and complete stop at red lights and stop signs.

Sharing is caring Be aware of other commuters, public transit buses and other vehicles that may stop frequently.

Green pedestrian traffic light signal against a dusk sky.

Pedestrians 

Your safe place Sidewalks are a designated safe space for pedestrians. If no sidewalk is present, walk on the far-left side of the road.

Be alert Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, like using your phone or wearing headphones while crossing the street.

Follow the flow Obey pedestrian signals and only cross at designated locations or marked crosswalks.

Triple check Stop, listen and look both ways before crossing and ensure all traffic has come to a complete stop before proceeding.

Be visible Make eye contact with other road users before crossing— never assume that drivers can see you or know your intentions. If possible, wear bright or reflective clothing to improve visibility.

Hit the road.

Visit caasco.com/roadsafety to learn more.

Share this article: