🚶‍♀️🚗 How to Stay Visible to Pedestrians While Driving: A Shared Responsibility on Montréal’s Roads

By Ligue Automobile de Montréal – Driving School Blog

When it comes to road safety in Montréal, visibility is key. Drivers and pedestrians alike share the responsibility of making sure they can see — and be seen. While pedestrians are often reminded to wear bright clothing or use crosswalks, drivers play an equally critical role in ensuring safe visibility on our streets.

At Ligue Automobile de Montréal, we believe safer roads start with awareness and respect. Here’s how drivers can improve visibility and protect pedestrians every time they get behind the wheel.

1️⃣ Keep Your Headlights On — Day and Night

Even during daylight, daytime running lights (DRLs) make your vehicle more noticeable. But don’t rely on DRLs alone:

Use full headlights in rain, snow, fog, or low light.
Remember that DRLs don’t usually activate rear lights.

2️⃣ Keep Glass and Lights Clean

A clear view means better safety:

Remove snow/ice from all windows, mirrors, and headlights.
Wash off road salt, dust, and grime regularly.
Keep washer fluid topped up, especially in winter.

If you can’t see pedestrians, they can’t see you.

3️⃣ Signal Early, Brake Gradually

Your signals and braking patterns help pedestrians predict your movements.

Use turn signals well before lane changes or turns.
Brake gradually near intersections and crosswalks.
Smooth, predictable driving reduces risks.

4️⃣ Respect Crosswalks — Marked or Not

In Québec, pedestrians have the right of way at both marked and unmarked intersections.

Slow down and yield to people at curbs.
Don’t block crosswalks during red lights or traffic jams.
Make eye contact with pedestrians to confirm visibility.

5️⃣ Watch for Vulnerable Pedestrians

Stay extra alert for:
👦 Children near schools and parks
👴 Seniors crossing slowly
♿ People with mobility aids
🐕‍🦺 Individuals with visual impairments or guide dogs

A few extra seconds of patience can prevent tragedy.

6️⃣ Slow Down in Busy Zones

Neighbourhoods like Plateau-Mont-Royal, Vieux-Montréal, and Downtown are full of pedestrians. Take extra caution in:

School and residential zones
Transit stops
Construction zones
Shared bike/pedestrian paths

7️⃣ Stay Off the Phone

Distracted driving is one of the biggest threats to pedestrians. In Québec, using a mobile device while driving is not only dangerous — it’s illegal.

📵 Keep your eyes on the road.

🚦 Driving With Visibility = Driving With Respect

Safe driving isn’t just about rules — it’s about creating a culture of respect. In Montréal, where cars, bikes, and pedestrians share the streets, visibility can mean the difference between life and death.

At Ligue Automobile de Montréal, we train drivers to think beyond the test — to be safe, respectful, and aware on every trip.

📞 Call us today at 514-844-7303
📧 Email: info@ladm.ca

Let’s keep visibility in the driver’s seat.