Alberta RCMP reminds road users to stay safe during low-light conditions

October 14, 2026 - Edmonton, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

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As daylight hours decrease and more Albertans commute during periods of limited visibility, the Alberta RCMP is reminding drivers and pedestrians to take extra precautions to stay safe on roadways.

Motorists should remember: 

• Be especially mindful when driving in school and playground zones during periods of low light. 
• Always obey the posted speed limit so you can stop safely when necessary.
• Never pass vehicles that are stopped at a crosswalk. There may be pedestrians crossing that you cannot see. 
• Never assume pedestrians can see you. Before turning at an intersection, make eye contact with pedestrians whenever possible and ensure the crosswalk is clear before proceeding.
• Drivers should be aware that both marked and unmarked crosswalks may exist at intersections and must yield to pedestrians who are lawfully crossing.

Pedestrians should remember: 

• Follow the rules of the road and obey all posted signs and signals. 
• Always try to cross at marked crosswalks. If a crosswalk is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic, and only cross when it’s safe. 
• Make sure motorists can see you and that traffic has come to a complete stop before entering a crosswalk.
• If you are walking when visibility is low, consider wearing high-visibility gear or clothing. 
• If no sidewalk is available, walk facing oncoming traffic and keep as far from vehicles as safely possible.

“Reduced visibility can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians and for pedestrians to accurately judge approaching traffic,” says Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. “A few extra seconds of caution can help prevent serious collisions and keep everyone safe.”

For more traffic safety information, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.

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