Pedestrian Crossovers

Walking is part of everyday life in Niagara Falls, and we all share the road. Pedstrian crossovers are designated areas that allow pedestrians to safely cross roads when there are no traffic lights. Where there is a pedestrian crossover, school crossing or location with a crossing guard, drivers and cyclists must wait for pedestrians to clear the road.

What drivers must do

• Stop for pedestrians who are crossing, and wait until they have completely reached the other side before moving
• Stop behind the yield line (a row of white triangles)
• Never pass another vehicle that is within 30 metres of a pedestrian crossover
• Make eye contact so pedestrians see you
• If you break the law, you could face penalties, up to $1,000, plus four demerit points. Fines double in Community Safety Zones.

What pedestrians and cyclists must do

• Show you intend to cross, make eye contact with drivers
• Wait until traffic has stopped before stepping onto the road
• Do not enter the crossover if it’s not safe for a driver to stop in time
• Cyclists dismount and walk with their bikes through the pedestrian crossover

How to spot a pedestrian crossover

Pedestrian crossovers are marked by:

• Ladder-style painted lines
• A yield line (white triangles) where vehicles must stop
• Roadside “Stop for Pedestrians” signs
• Sometimes flashing lights or overhead signs on busier roads

At all crossovers, the rules are the same: drivers and cyclists must stop until pedestrians fully cross the road.