October Is Pedestrian Safety Month: NHTSA

Amid rising numbers of pedestrian fatalities and injuries recorded in recent years, U.S. officials have launched a nationwide campaign to provide safety tips.

With data showing an increase in pedestrian traffic deaths over the past several years, federal safety officials have launched a nationwide campaign this month, which is designed to raise awareness and improve pedestrian safety.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced its fourth annual National Pedestrian Safety Month campaign, which will run the entire month of October, promoting a series of safety tips for drivers and pedestrians that could help reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents and deaths.

In 2022, a pedestrian was killed about every 70 minutes in traffic crashes, adding up to a total of 7,522 pedestrian deaths. More than 67,000 pedestrians were injured.

In an effort to reduce the growing number of pedestrian injuries and deaths, NHTSA is promoting a safety program that is focused on five main components:

• Safe People, to encourage safe driving behaviors
• Safe Speeds, to enforce speed limits on roadways
• Safe Roads, to design roads with pedestrian safety in mind
• Safe Vehicles, to expand vehicle designs to prevent crashes and minimize impacts
• Post-Crash Care, to improve access to emergency medical care

NHTSA Pedestrian Safety Tips for Drivers and Walkers

Along with its pedestrian safety programs, federal officials are also providing a series of tips for both drivers and walkers.

To avoid accidents with pedestrians, the NHTSA urges drivers to always look out for individuals on foot, bikes or scooters, especially in low-visibility conditions or when backing up. They are also being reminded to always follow traffic laws, which includes never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and obeying speed limits.

Drivers should also be prepared to slow down and stop well before crosswalks, to provide other drivers an opportunity to see crossing pedestrians, and drivers should never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk, as there may be people crossing where they are unable to see.

Tips for pedestrians include highlighting the importance of obeying signs and signals, staying alert for cars entering or exiting driveways, and avoiding alcohol or drug use while walking or riding a personal mobility vehicle, as these could impair their abilities and judgment.

Pedestrians should also use sidewalks when available. When that is not possible, pedestrians are being reminded to always walk facing traffic, while staying as far from the roadway as possible. When crossing the street, walkers should always use crosswalks or find well-lit areas with clear views of oncoming traffic.

NHTSA offers a variety of guides and educational resources for pedestrians, drivers and government officials. These resources include information on assessing walkway safety, creating safer communities, and keeping children safe, in addition to courses, workshops and training.

To obtain additional resources or to learn more about pedestrian safety, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety.