With an increasing number of traffic crashes involving a pedestrian, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is reminding drivers of the importance of slowing down and watching out for pedestrians.
A pedestrian is any person on foot, walking, running, jogging, hiking, sitting or lying down.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 7,300 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2023. On average, a pedestrian was killed every 72 minutes in a traffic crash.
“With shorter days and reduced visibility, pedestrian-related crashes are more common this time of year,” said Brad White, MDOT Executive Director. “Accidents involving pedestrians are unfortunately on the rise, and we want to remind drivers to slow down and stay alert since pedestrians are especially vulnerable. We encourage pedestrians to wear bright and reflective clothing to help ensure drivers see them as well.”
NHTSA reported that in 2023, 77% of fatal pedestrian-involved crashes happened after sunset.
Studies show that slowing down can lessen the risk and severity of pedestrian-involved crashes, with higher speeds significantly decreasing pedestrian survival rates.
Below are some tips for drivers:
- Watch for pedestrians everywhere. Pedestrians may be in unexpected places or hard to see, especially when visibility is lower at dusk, dawn, night and in poor weather.
- Always stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk or where pedestrian crosswalk signs are posted.
- Be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- Follow the speed limit and slow down around pedestrians.
- Stay focused and slow down where children may be present, including school zones and neighborhoods.
Below are tips for pedestrians:
- Never attempt to cross an interstate.
- Walk on a sidewalk or path when one is available.
- If no sidewalk or path is available, walk on the shoulder, facing traffic.
- Stay alert; don’t be distracted by electronic devices, including smart phones, audio players or other devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.
- Be cautious night and day when sharing the road with vehicles. Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach.
- Be predictable. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections when possible. This is where drivers expect pedestrians.
- If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area, wait for a gap in traffic that allows you enough time to cross safely and continue to watch for traffic as you cross.
- Be visible. Wear bright clothing during the day and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
For more information on pedestrian safety visit GoMDOT.com or follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook, X and Instagram.
