October is Pedestrian Safety Month

October 1, 2024

At some point in the day, everyone is a pedestrian. Unfortunately, pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high. In 2022, 7,522 pedestrians were killed and more than 67,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide. Below are some tips for pedestrians and drivers:

8 Walking Safety Tips

Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.
Embrace walking as a healthy form of transportation – get up, get out and get moving.

8 Safety Tips for Drivers

Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times.
Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as nighttime or bad weather.
Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too.
Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing where you can’t see.
Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street, in school zones and in neighborhoods where children are present.
Be extra cautious when backing up and look for pedestrians.

Download Tips Cards:

Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon

Safe Walking Booklet

Know Your Pedestrian Signs and Signals