The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Randolph Township Police Department remind you to follow walking safety tips to ensure that you and all pedestrians remain safe.
The NHTSA reports that pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high. In 2021, 7,388 pedestrians were killed – a 13% increase from 2020 – and more than 60,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide. Preliminary 2022 data is even more alarming: 7,508 deaths, the highest number since 1981 and an average of 20 deaths every day.
The NHTSA emphasizes the importance of being aware of your surroundings when walking and compiled the following Walking Safety Tips:
- Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals. Don’t forget to watch for other pedestrians and cyclists; cyclists bike with traffic.
- Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available; walk single file and remember motorists might not see you.
- 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.
- Don’t wear dark colors, especially at night. Be just as cautious at dawn or twilight, drivers have limited visibility or may have the setting or rising sun directly in their eyes.
- Don’t listen to loud music or look at your phone – hang up and eyes up -- pay attention to traffic.
- Embrace walking as a healthy form of transportation - get up, get out and get moving.
Stay Safe! For more safety information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety.