City of Toronto launches annual Vision Zero campaign to remind road users of reduced visibility as clocks turn back

With daylight saving time coming to an end this Sunday, November 5 at 2 a.m., the City of Toronto is urging all road users to stay alert, look out for each other and obey the rules of the road.

The return to standard time means fewer daylight hours and reduced visibility for all road users in the evening. In Toronto, pedestrian collisions increase by more than 30 per cent during the evening commute hours from November to March.

To draw attention to the increased risks people face when walking and cycling, the City has launched a public education campaign promoting road safety as reduced daylight hours begin. The campaign reminds Toronto residents and visitors to be aware of other road users as they share the city’s streets – especially when driving.

Residents can expect to see the campaign featured on billboards, on the back of buses and transit shelters, on television and radio and in print and social media ads until December 3. The campaign will also appear on taxi tops in the downtown core and in high-volume parking garages throughout the city.

When visibility is reduced, people and objects on the road are harder to see. The City is asking drivers to follow these important safety tips:

• When driving, please slow down, turn slowly and look for other road users. Always stay alert.
• Make sure vehicle headlights and signal lights are functioning properly.
• Obey speed limits and approach all crosswalks, intersections and transit stops with caution.
• Give yourself plenty of time to get wherever you are going and plan your route in advance.

More information is available on the Vision Zero webpage.

The Vision Zero Road Safety Plan is a comprehensive action plan that aims to reduce traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries on Toronto’s streets. With more than 50 safety measures across seven emphasis areas, the plan prioritizes the safety of Toronto’s most vulnerable road users: schoolchildren, older adults, pedestrians and people cycling. More information on Vision Zero programs and initiatives is available on the City’s website.

Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.