Recent reports have continued to document the crisis of traffic deaths for people on our roadways. Data estimates from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that traffic fatalities reached a 16 year high in 2021, with an estimated 42,915 motor vehicle fatalities, a 10.5% increase from the 38,824 fatalities in 2020. The number of people dying while walking and biking also increased last year, with pedestrian fatalities increasing by 13% and bicyclist fatalities up by 5%. In addition, based on preliminary data provided by State Highway Safety Offices (SHSOs), the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reported that drivers struck and killed 7,485 people walking in 2021 - the most in a single year in four decades. In California, UC Berkeley SafeTREC’s latest fact sheet on pedestrian safety notes that pedestrian fatalities rose 5.7 percent from 933 in 2016 to 986 in 2020. This burden is also not shared equally. The latest Dangerous By Design 2022 Report noted that people of color, particularly Native and Black Americans, are more likely to die while walking than any other race or ethnic group. These deaths are unacceptable and preventable.
Safety messaging for Pedestrian Safety Month to look out for one another and share the road, share the responsibility. (Photo: Go Safely California/gosafelyca.org)
Each September, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) celebrates Pedestrian Safety Month in California by raising awareness about risks to pedestrians on the road, and the importance of ensuring safe travel for pedestrians. This year, OTS asks those driving or walking to work together to keep our streets safe for all road users. Here are some tips on how you can help keep your community safe:
Safety Tips for People Driving
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Do not speed, and slow down at intersections.
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Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks. Stop prior to the crosswalk.
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Avoid blocking the crosswalk while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
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Never drive impaired.
Safety Tips for People Walking
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Be alert.
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Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.
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Watch for approaching vehicles and practice due care crossing the street.
- Be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night or on busier streets with higher speed limits.
Pedestrian Safety Resources
Explore our sampling of resources from traffic safety partners and advocacy organizations throughout the state and beyond!
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California Office of Traffic Safety: Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety, Go Safely CA
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Visit the Guides and Toolkits webpage for resources to support your work to make walking safer and more enjoyable in your community.
- Explore our Advocacy Groups Inventory for organizations throughout the state working to make communities safer for walking.
- America Walks
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NHTSA: Pedestrian Safety