MDOT provides tips to increase pedestrian safety

JACKSON, Miss. (WDAM) – The Mississippi Department of Transportation is reminding drivers about the importance of slowing down and watching out for pedestrians.

MDOT wants to provide pedestrian safety tips to drivers in response to the increase in traffic accidents involving a pedestrian.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2020, 6,516 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in the United States. NHTSA puts the number at about 18 pedestrians struck per day and 125 pedestrians per week.

On average, NHTSA reported that at least one pedestrian was killed every 81 minutes in a traffic accident, which is a 3.9% increase from 2019, and Mississippi had the third-highest pedestrian fatality rate per 100,000 residents.

“Pedestrian-related crashes are on the rise not only in Mississippi, but across the country. It’s critical that drivers stay alert while behind the wheel because pedestrians are vulnerable,” said MDOT Executive Director Brad White. “And with Halloween and daylight savings fast approaching, we want to remind drivers to slow down and watch out for pedestrians.”

NHTSA reported that in 2022, 77% of fatal crashes involving pedestrians occurred after sunset.

The Active Transportation Alliance conducted studies that found that slowing down can reduce the risk and severity of a pedestrian-involved crash, regardless of the time of day. A person hit by a vehicle going 20 mph has a 90% survival rate, but only a 10% survival rate if the driver is traveling 40 mph.

Below are some tips for drivers:

• Watch out for pedestrians everywhere. Pedestrians may not walk where they should or may be difficult to see especially when visibility is lower, including dusk, dawn, night and bad weather.
• Always stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk or where crosswalk signs are posted.
• Be prepared to stop when turning or 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, such as school zones and neighborhoods.

MDOT also has tips for pedestrians to be safer while walking:

• Never attempt to cross an interstate.
• Walk on a sidewalk or path when available.
• If there is no sidewalk or path, walk on the shoulder, facing traffic.
• Stay alert; don’t be distracted by electronic devices, including smartphones, audio players, or other devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.
• Be careful at night and day when you share the road with vehicles. Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach.
• Be predictable. Cross roads at crosswalks or intersections when possible. Here drivers wait for pedestrians.
• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, find 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.

Visit GoMDOT.com or follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more pedestrian safety information.

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