Jaywalking: A Bad Habit That Can Cost You

Mar 10, 2025

The Police Force and many citizens are increasingly noticing that people have the bad habit of crossing the street anywhere, anytime, hoping that vehicles will stop to let them pass. This increases the risk of serious incidents or accidents, for both pedestrians and motorists.

Pedestrian crossings exist for several good reasons. We ask that you respect them for the safety of everyone, pedestrians and motorists alike.

Safefy Tips for Pedestrians

- Cross the street at a pedestrian crossing or a traffic light. Avoid crossing the street anywhere at anytime.

- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing to make sure they have seen you and wait until the cars have completely stopped to cross.

- At a traffic light, cross when the light has just turned green. Do not cross if the “Wait” signal is flashing or the light turns yellow.

- Be alert for vehicles that may be coming from a driveway or intersection.

- Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like texting or listening to music.

Safety Tips for Drivers

- Always be on the lookout for pedestrians at intersections and children running into the street or jumping out from between parked cars.

- Drive slowly in school zones (30 km/h) and residential areas. Watch for speed limit signs.

- Be careful around public transit vehicles, obey the rules surrounding buses to protect pedestrians getting on and off, and be patient with children and seniors who may need more time.

- Safe driving requires your full attention. It is illegal to talk, text, dial or email on a cell phone or other handheld communication or entertainment device while driving. Violators may be fined, have their license suspended and receive demerit points.

The Police Force will be conducting increased surveillance in the coming weeks.

We thank you in advance for your collaboration.

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CONTACT: Edmundston Police Force, 506.739.2110