Dear Editor,
Re: “Really?” column, Dec. 9.
May I suggest a measure that may help with pedestrians at crosswalks; especially those at non-illuminated ones.
We were taught in Ontario to stop at the edge of the sidewalk and extend an arm outwards. This aids the oncoming drivers (at least most of them) that the person standing there wants to cross. In Richmond, I see people loitering about these crosswalks, talking on the cellphone, with no intention of crossing.
This confuses the driver who will often stop, and then be forced to speed up again.
Pedestrians, it is also your responsibility to come to a full stop before attempting to cross. I notice at the Kwantlen University crosswalk that adjoins Lansdowne mall, students descend the steps and immediately run onto the road. Stop, look, point and proceed when safe.
Ron Graham
Richmond
