Pedestrian Crossovers and Crosswalks: Wait Until They're Across

At a pedestrian crossover (marked with signs, road markings and sometimes overhead lights) and at school crossings with a crossing guard, Ontario drivers and cyclists must stop and wait until the pedestrian has completely crossed the road, not just your half of it.

Crossovers versus crosswalks

• Pedestrian crossovers have special signs and markings, and are often mid-block. Stop when a pedestrian is crossing, and wait until they are completely across.
• Crosswalks at intersections with traffic lights or stop signs follow the signals and the right-of-way rules.
• School crossings with a guard displaying a stop sign: wait until the guard and the children have left the road.

The penalties

• Failing to yield at a crossover or school crossing can bring a significant fine and 3 demerit points.
• Fines are often doubled in community safety zones.

Tips for drivers

• Scan for people near crossovers, especially at night and in winter.
• Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crossover.

Charged?

As with any ticket, request disclosure and consider your options before paying.

Sources

• Highway Traffic Act
• Ontario: driving and roads

Read next: Sharing the Road With Cyclists: The One-Metre Rule and Dooring

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: Downtown Toronto on a snowy day · Cycling down a quiet city street.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.