A new Ontario law could see motorists fined as much as $500, and lose three demerit points, for offences at pedestrian crossovers, such as this one on Perth Drive near University Hospital on Western’s campus. As of Jan. 1, motorists stopped at a crossover must wait until a pedestrian is completely off the roadway, not just past their vehicle, before proceeding. This law also applies at school crossings where a crossing guard is holding a stop sign. The new law does not apply at crosswalks – unless a school crossing guard is present.
So, how do you tell the difference between a crossover and a crosswalk? A pedestrian-activated crossover features flashing amber lights on an overhead ‘X sign. These are typically in the middle of the block. A crosswalk is commonly found at intersections with traffic lights or stop signs. Crossovers are rare in London. Western and Fanshawe College boast the only two in the city.