What is one responsibility drivers have towards pedestrians at crosswalks?

Drivers have a crucial responsibility to ensure the safety of pedestrians, especially at crosswalks, and this includes being prepared to stop when pedestrians are present or signaling their intention to cross. Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks in Nova Scotia, meaning that it is the driver’s duty to yield and allow them to cross safely. Being prepared to stop involves remaining vigilant and attentive to your surroundings, as well as responding appropriately to the actions of pedestrians.

While keeping a safe distance is important for maintaining safety, it does not explicitly capture the responsibility of drivers to prioritize pedestrian safety at crosswalks. Encouraging pedestrians to cross is not a requirement for drivers, as that could create confusion or distractions. Reminding pedestrians of traffic rules is unnecessary at a crosswalk, since it is the driver's responsibility to ensure pedestrian safety, rather than the other way around. Thus, being prepared to stop is the most pertinent responsibility of drivers regarding pedestrian interactions at crosswalks.