Stay Seen, Stay Safe: RCMP Remind Drivers and Pedestrians to Use Caution in Low Light

As daylight hours fade, Alberta RCMP are reminding motorists and pedestrians alike to take extra care when travelling during darker hours. Reduced visibility can make it harder to spot people, vehicles, and potential hazards—especially around schools, playgrounds, and intersections.

“Limited visibility can be dangerous for both drivers and pedestrians,” says Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic. “It’s important for everyone to practice extra caution when using roadways to help ensure everyone’s safety.”

For Drivers

▪️ Slow down in school and playground zones, particularly in the early morning and evening. Reduced speed gives you more time to react.
▪️ Never pass vehicles stopped at crosswalks—someone may be crossing where you can’t see them.
▪️ Make eye contact with pedestrians before turning, and always wait until they have completely crossed.
▪️ Remember that every intersection is a crosswalk, marked or not.

For Pedestrians

▪️ Obey traffic signs and signals, and use marked crosswalks whenever possible.
▪️ If no crosswalk is available, choose a well-lit area and wait until it’s safe to cross.
▪️ Wear reflective or high-visibility clothing during low-light hours.
▪️ Make sure drivers see you and that all vehicles have stopped before stepping into the street.
▪️ If you must walk along a road without a sidewalk, walk facing traffic and stay as far away from vehicles as possible.

As the days grow shorter, a few extra seconds of caution can make all the difference—helping ensure everyone gets home safely.