Jaywalkers in Richmond will now be subject to a $50 fine, if caught by police.
Richmond city council unanimously agreed with a transportation department recommendation to impose the fine on those who don’t use dedicated crosswalks in the city, or anyone who crosses a street at a dedicated crossing when not permitted to (ignoring the ‘Don’t Walk’ sign).
The definition of jaywalking had been removed from the provincial Motor Vehicle Act, meaning municipalities were required to impose their own bylaws. Richmond’s transportation department proposed the fines in a new bylaw that is now set for a public hearing next month.
“I think it’s a serious problem. We’ve had four fatalities in a few years due to people not using crosswalks,” said Coun. Ken Johnston.
According to the RCMP Traffic Section, as noted in a report to council, there have been 14 pedestrian fatalities in Richmond over the last five years. Four of those occurred outside of a crosswalk.
The proposed fine is said to be designed to act as a deterrent without being overly punitive.
There are 13 police officers in the Traffic Section.
Additionally, to complement the new jaywalking fine for pedestrians, is an increased fine for motorists who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. The fine will jump from $109 to $150.
“This amendment will also be enforced by the RCMP, particularly in the City Centre where there is a higher level of pedestrian activity,” noted the staff report.
