Slow Down and Stay Safe on the Roads This Holiday Season

December is always a busy time on Mississauga roads. There’s a risk for collisions with many people running errands, seeing friends and family and taking part in holiday activities. The City is reminding all road users to stay alert and be safe when on the roads.

“There’s always a lot to celebrate during this season, but it’s important to do so responsibly,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “When out and about, please watch your speed. Don’t use your cell phones while driving, don’t drive impaired – designate a driver and obey traffic signals and signs. If you’re planning to bike in the evenings or early mornings, increase your visibility by using bike lights. We want to make sure everyone gets to their destination and home, safely.”

Impaired and distracted driving continues to be a concern on Mississauga roadways. Mixing alcohol and/or drugs with driving is a dangerous combination at any time of the year. Peel Regional Police’s Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (R.I.D.E) program will be out to detect and stop impaired drivers at random locations throughout Mississauga. Looking at your phone or other electronic device is consider distracted driving and is also dangerous. Put the phone away and focus on the road.

“Impaired driving is illegal, dangerous and a reckless behaviour,” said Pat Saito, Ward 9 Councillor and Chair of the Road Safety Committee. “Many people have been seriously injured or killed because of an impaired driver. If you plan to drink or use cannabis, you should also plan for a safe way to get home. There are many options available, so consider assigning a designated driver, taking MiWay, GO Transit, rideshare or a taxi to get home safely. We will continue to work with Peel Regional Police to keep our roads safe during the holidays.”

The City is also preparing for severe weather conditions and keeping City roads clear this winter.

“In addition to practising safe driving behaviours, we’re reminding all road users to be patient with our staff who are working to clear roads of ice and snow. Our winter crews are ready to clear the way to make travelling routes safe, accessible and to help you get to your destination safely,” said Geoff Wright, Commissioner, Transportation and Works. “As snow begins to fall, plan ahead and give yourself extra time. Slow down and maintain a safe distance between snow plows to give them enough room to clear the roads.”

For more road safety information and additional safety tips, visit mississauga.ca/roadsafety.

Residents can also provide feedback to help inform specific road safety programs, initiatives and measures by completing the Road Safety Survey by January 14, 2021.

Winter Road Safety Tips:

Practise safe winter driving behaviours by remembering to:

• Plan a safe way home: Don’t drive impaired (alcohol or cannabis). Rely on a safe transportation option instead.
  Drive for the road conditions: Slow down in bad weather like snow or ice. Give snowplows and salters room to do their jobs.
• Clean off your car: Clear snow and ice from all windows, the roof of your car and headlights to ensure you have an unobstructed view and others can see you clearly.
• Avoid distractions: Focus on the road when driving. Send text messages or make phone calls before you get in your car or once you reach your destination.
• Give yourself more time: Get to your destination safely by planning extra travel time.
• Look for pedestrians and cyclists: Evenings get darker sooner this time of year, so it’s important to do a scan for pedestrians and cyclists before turning. Mall parking lots are also busy this time of year. Remember to slow down and look for pedestrians.

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• Public Safety
• Roads and Traffic