Recent reports highlight the growing crisis of traffic-related fatalities across the nation. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that traffic deaths reached a 16-year high in 2021, with an estimated 42,915 motor vehicle fatalities, marking a 10.5% increase from the 38,824 deaths recorded in 2020. The number of pedestrians and cyclists killed also rose last year, with a 13% increase in pedestrian fatalities and a 5% rise in bicyclist fatalities. Additionally, preliminary data from State Highway Safety Offices (SHSOs) shows that 7,485 pedestrians were struck and killed by drivers in 2021 — the highest number in four decades. 

In California specifically, UC Berkeley SafeTREC’s most recent fact sheet on pedestrian safety reports a 5.7% increase in pedestrian deaths, from 933 in 2016 to 986 in 2020. This crisis disproportionately affects communities of color, with the Dangerous By Design 2022 Report revealing that Native and Black Americans are more likely to die while walking than any other racial or ethnic group. These deaths are both unacceptable and preventable. 

Promoting Pedestrian Safety 

Every September, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) marks Pedestrian Safety Month by raising awareness about the risks faced by pedestrians and the importance of safe travel for all. This year, OTS is encouraging both drivers and pedestrians to collaborate in keeping our streets safe. Here are some tips to help ensure pedestrian safety in your community: 

Safety Tips for Drivers: 

• Reduce Speed: Slow down, especially at intersections. 
• Stop for Pedestrians: Always be ready to stop for pedestrians at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Stop before the crosswalk, not in it. 
• Keep Crosswalks Clear: Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make turns.
• Drive Sober: Never drive while impaired. 

Safety Tips for Pedestrians: 

• Stay Alert: Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
• Use Crosswalks: Opt for signalized crosswalks where drivers expect pedestrian traffic.
• Exercise Caution: Look for approaching vehicles and use caution when crossing streets.
• Be Visible: Take extra care when crossing streets at night or on busier roads with higher speed limits. 

Pedestrian Safety Resources 

Explore resources from traffic safety partners and advocacy organizations across California and beyond! 

• California Office of Traffic Safety: Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety, Go Safely CA
• California Walks: Visit California Walks
• Check out our Guides and Toolkits webpage for resources to help make walking safer in your community.
• America Walks: Learn More about America Walks
• NHTSA: Pedestrian Safety

By following these guidelines and utilizing available resources, we can all contribute to a safer environment for pedestrians.

Adding a LightGuard Systems lighted crosswalk to your community can be an effective measure in reducing pedestrian and cyclist accidents. These crosswalks use in-roadway warning lights, flashing LED signs, and RRFBs to alert drivers when a pedestrian is present or preparing to cross. Studies have shown that lighted crosswalks significantly improve driver awareness and compliance with stopping laws, particularly in low-visibility conditions or at night. By increasing the visibility of crosswalks and making them more noticeable to drivers, LightGuard Systems helps create a safer environment for everyone on the road, encouraging safer behaviors and reducing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.