MEDIA RELEASE: Stay Alert Stay Safe: Daylight saving time ends soon

Winnipeg, MB, October 29, 2020 – CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) is reminding all motorists and pedestrians to stay alert as we turn our clocks back this weekend. Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 1. The return to standard time means fewer daylight hours and reduced visibility for all road users.

“Road safety and pedestrian safety are a shared responsibility. Taking precautions and being aware of other road users helps us all arrive at our destinations safely,” says Heather Mack, manager of government and community relations, CAA MB.

As we are navigate our new normal, working and commuting during a pandemic, we are facing additional obstructions this year. Physical distancing means pedestrians may step out onto the road to keep their distance from others or take longer to cross  at intersections. It is important now more than ever to remind road users to follow the rules of the road, and be patient.

What motorists can do to stay safe:

• Be alert to pedestrians stepping out onto the road. Physical distancing on sidewalks means pedestrians may step out onto the road at any given moment.
• Always look for pedestrians crossing the road. Be attentive while driving and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, school crossings and crossovers.
• Mind your blind spots. Be aware of blind spots when making turns at intersections.
• Stay focused and vigilant behind the wheel. Avoid distractions inside and outside of your vehicle.
• Slow down in school zones. Reduce your speed and obey speed limits in school zones and residential neighbourhoods.
• Prepare for the unexpected. Residential streets and school zones have different types of obstacles, such as children playing outdoors, riding bikes, skateboarding, etc.
• Be cautious and considerate. Be alert around stopped transit vehicles and be
• courteous to pedestrians with different mobility needs that may require more time.
• Use your lights. Motorists should use their full lighting system at when it gets dark and in low visibility situations.

What pedestrians can do to stay safe:

• Be careful when physical distancing on the sidewalk. Try to avoid stepping out onto road and if you end up stepping on the road, ensure there are no vehicles in the lane.
• Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions and be alert while crossing the street.
• Follow the flow. Follow signals and cross at designated locations or crosswalks.
• Stop, look, and listen. Ensure all traffic has come to a complete stop before crossing the road.
• Keep an eye out. Make eye contact with motorists—never assume that drivers can see you or know your intentions.
• Be visible. Pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing or accessories at night to help with visibility.

CAA MB are providing FREE “Slow Down Please” lawn signs to anyone living in Winnipeg. When well-placed, these signs aim to make roads safer for children and those living in the community. Remember to check local bylaws before installing signs on private property. Anyone can pick up a maximum of two signs at any CAA Store, while quantities last.