Pedestrian crossovers are a safe way for pedestrians to cross the road. By law, drivers (including cyclists) must stop and yield to pedestrians that are ready to cross. Crossovers have signs and pavements markings indicating where drivers must stop, and sometimes have additional signs, push buttons and flashing lights.
As a safety measure for pedestrians, the City of Stratford has recently installed two new crossovers - one on John Street just south of Cambria Street (near the Stratford General Hospital) and the other on Romeo Street at Verona Park.
Types of Pedestrian Crossovers
There are 3 types of crossovers in Stratford, and they all follow the same rules. However, some have additional safety features based on traffic volume and sightlines.
Pedestrian Crossover - Type D
(John Street South, near Stratford General Hospital)
- Crossing is marked by a "ladder"
- Clear place for motorists and cyclists to stop
- Roadside signs
Pedestrian Crossover - Type C
(Forman Avenue at Oakdale Avenue)
- Crossing is marked by a "ladder"
- Clear place for motorists and cyclists to stop
- Roadside signs, push bottons and flashing lights
Pedestrian Crossover - Type B
(Romeo Street at Christopher Plummer Drive/Verona Park)
- Crossing is marked by a "ladder"
- Clear place for motorists and cyclists to stop
- Roadside signs, push buttons, flashing lights and overhead signs
(Illustrations Courtesy of MTO, © Queen’s Printer for Ontario, 2019)
Responsibilities
Drivers, pedestrians and cyclists all have responsibilities when approaching a pedestrian crossover.
Drivers
- Stop behind the yield line when pedestrians want to cross
- Make eye contact so pedestrians see you
- Wait until the pedestrian completely crosses the road
Pedestrians
- Push the button (if available)
- Wait for traffic to stop both ways
- Make eye contact to ensure drivers see you
Cyclists
- When riding with traffic, follow rules for drivers
- When crossing, follow rules for pedestrians; dismount and walk your bike across
Drivers and cyclists who do not follow the rules at pedestrian crossovers may face fines of up to $1,000. Drivers may also face 4 demerit points.
More information about pedestrian crossings is available on the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) website at http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/pedestrian-safety.shtml#q9