Pedestrian Safety - National Safety Council

We rarely are more vulnerable than when walking in urban areas, crossing busy streets and negotiating traffic. We all are pedestrians from time to time, so it's important to pay attention to what is going on around us. In 2019, an estimated 7,668 pedestrian died in traffic and non-traffic incidents, with 6,205 of those killed in traffic crashes on public roads, according to Injury Facts.

All Ages Are Vulnerable

According to Injury Facts, in 2019, more than 17% of all traffic deaths were pedestrians. Every age group is vulnerable, though 45- to 74-year-olds have 20% or more pedestrian deaths as a percentage of all traffic fatalities.

Follow these tips to stay safe as a pedestrian:

Whenever possible, walk on the sidewalk; if no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic
Follow the rules of the road, obeying all traffic signs and signals
Cross streets at crosswalks
If no crosswalk is available and your view is blocked, move to a place where you can see oncoming traffic
Look left, right and left again before crossing the street, making eye contact with drivers of oncoming vehicles to make sure they see you
Stay alert – avoid cell phone use and wearing earbuds
Avoid alcohol and drug impairment when walking
Wear bright and/or reflective clothing, and use a flashlight at night
Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots
Children younger than 10 should cross the street with an adult

Head Up, Phone Down

Distracted walking incidents are on the rise, and everyone with a cell phone is at risk. We are losing focus on our surroundings and putting our safety at risk. The solution: Stop using phones while walking, and not just in crosswalks and intersections. Over half of distracted walking injuries occur in our own homes, proving that we need to stay aware of our surroundings whether indoors and out.

Pedestrian Safety Is a Shared Responsibility

When driving, help keep pedestrians of all ages safe:

Obey all traffic laws, especially posted speed limits in school zones
Watch for pedestrians at all times and be extra cautious when backing up
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, making eye contact to indicate that you see them
Never pass vehicles stopped at crosswalks
Stay alert – avoid distracted driving
Do not drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs

Other Resources

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Videos

Take Steps to Avoid Injury or Death While Walking

All Ages Are Vulnerable

Head Up, Phone Down

Pedestrian Safety Is a Shared Responsibility

Other Resources

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Videos

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