u/jules0075

I find I have a close call once every week or two, and I'm left feeling upset about why I, as pedestrian, carry most of the burden of not being hit by the driver of a 3,000+ lb vehicle.

During today's encounter at Mass & Grove, the man driving this vehicle came to a stop uncomfortably close to my dog and I who were in the middle of the crosswalk. I calmly asked, "what's up? did you not see us?" but instead of showing any indication of wrongdoing or regret, he tried to contain his shame by closing his window very slowly, and driving around us.

Every time this happens, I'm left wondering - what can I do? Carry a brick around so I look more intimidating? That'll only get me in more trouble... Wear a dashcam? Not sure the police would even care... I'm genuinely looking for ideas, not just here to vent. Thanks!

I went to my local MEC/REI store today to purchase an inReach or Zoleo, but was dissuaded by the staff who encouraged me to look into satellite messaging plans for my phone (Pixel 9 XL). I see that in Canada, Rogers and Bell both offer these, and there's T-Mobile in the US. Has anyone used these in the backcountry? Are they anywhere near as good as having a dedicated messaging device?

I don't want to dish out hundreds of dollars on a device, have to carry it AND my phone, and then have to commit to monthly fees and $40 reactivations. Would love to hear from those who have any experience using these plans on their phones.

My personal trips primarily take me to areas within 6 hours driving of Toronto (French & Spanish rivers, Killarney), but I'd love to hear anyone's experience.

What do you (pedestrian) do when you're almost hit by a car?

Satellite messaging phone plans instead of inReach/Zoleo?