Slow down and share the road safely

Strathcona County is reminding drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to watch out for each other and share the road safely.

This traffic safety message aligns with Canada Road Safety Week, which runs from May 12 to 18, and is especially important with the increased number of residents spending time outdoors during the pandemic.

“We all have a role to play in keeping each other safe around roadways,” said Debbie Rawson, Transportation Integration and Safety Advisor. “Current physical distancing requirements mean people need more space for walking and cycling, and drivers need to be more aware and watch for activity on the roads.”

For drivers, this means:

• Slowing down on residential streets. A pedestrian or cyclist struck by a car travelling at 50 km/hr is eight times more likely to be killed than a pedestrian struck at 30 km/hr. 

For cyclists, this means:

• Following the rules of the road using hand signals, wearing a helmet and watching for vehicles and pedestrians.

For pedestrians, this means:

• Making eye contact with drivers and cyclists when you want to cross the road.
• Paying attention to your surroundings and taking extra care when stepping onto the road.

On rural roads, this means:

• Walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
• Cyclists and horse riders should always travel single file on the right side of the road.
• Always wear bright or reflective clothing so drivers can see you.

More information: strathcona.ca/trafficsafety
  

Set in the centre of Alberta’s energy and agricultural heartland, Strathcona County is a thriving, successful and vibrant community of over 98,000 residents. Strathcona County is made up of the urban area of Sherwood Park and a large adjacent rural area of farms, acreages and smaller hamlets. It is home to 75 per cent of hydrocarbon processing in Western Canada. Strathcona County is a leader in environmental conservation, and 55 per cent of its land is within the UNESCO Beaver Hills Biosphere. With a focus on economic, governance, social, cultural and environmental sustainability, Strathcona County is committed to balancing the unique needs of its diverse community.
  

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Contact: Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595