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- In 2021, 7,388 pedestrians and 966 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes with motor vehicles.1
- In Texas, pedestrian fatalities totaled 890 while bicyclists totaled 95, in 2022. This is about a 5% increase from 2021.2
- Overall, male pedestrians approximately ages 15 years and older were overrepresented. Of drivers involved in pedestrian crashes, the greatest proportion were younger (under age 35 years) and male drivers.3
- The majority of pedestrian deaths in 2021 occurred on Fridays and Saturdays.4
- Exactly 82% of all pedestrian fatal and serious crashes occurred in urban areas.5
- More than a quarter (25%) of all pedestrian fatalities occurred between 6 and 9:00 p.m. in 2021.4 This is the same time the majority of bicyclist fatalities also happen.5
- In 2021, the number of pedestrian fatalities was highest in California (1,108) followed by Florida and Texas (each with 817).1
- In 2021, pedestrian deaths accounted for 18% of all traffic fatalities.1
Pedestrian Safety Information
Use Sidewalks – When there is a sidewalk, use it! Most pedestrian traffic accidents happen when someone is walking on the roadway.
Be very alert when crossing any roadway. Stay on the right-hand side of crosswalks. Drivers are supposed to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks.
Cross at Intersections and in Crosswalks
- Yield to vehicles on the roadway if you cross the street at a place other than a marked crosswalk or pedestrian tunnel or crossing. If you’re hit while jaywalking, the driver may not be liable, and his or her auto insurance may not cover your injuries.
- If the road has no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
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Tips for Pedestrian Safety
- Be seen – wear bright or reflective clothing.
- Make a plan – look for the safest route with less traffic, slower speeds, more lighting, and sidewalks.
- Always cross at intersections. Look left, then right, then left again before proceeding.
- Look for traffic when stepping off a bus or from behind parked cars.
- As a passenger, get in or out of a car on the curbside of the street.
- Make eye contact with drivers before you cross the street.
- Avoid all distractions, such as cell phones and earbuds or other electronics
- Follow the traffic rules, signs, and signals
- Be aware of vehicles around you
Bicycle Safety
Laws – Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. As a bicyclist, you should obey all traffic laws, including the following:
- Stop at red lights and stop signs
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Pay attention to lane markers
- Ride near the curb, traveling in the same direction as traffic
- Use a light on the front and a red reflector or red light on the back of your bike while riding at night
Remember to use proper signals when you want to stop or turn. For a left turn, stretch out your left arm to the left; for a right turn stretch out your right arm to the right, or stretch out your left arm and make a 90-degree angle up with your elbow. For a stop, hold your left arm downward.
Tips for Bicyclists
- Wear a properly fitted helmet to reduce the chances of head injury and death. (Some cities and counties require cyclists to wear helmets. Contact local law enforcement for more information.)
- Always check brakes and tires before riding. Use this bicycle safety checklist>
- Make it easier for drivers to see you by wearing light colors or reflective clothing.
Tips for Drivers, Share the Road
- Be on the lookout for cyclists or pedestrians on the highway, especially at intersections.
- If you are passing a bicyclist, move to another lane if possible and give them plenty of room.
- Watch for bicyclists who may need to maneuver around potholes and debris.
- Make eye contact with pedestrians or bicyclists before turning.
- Follow posted speed limits.
- Give the pedestrian the right of way.
- Be alert in school zones, bus drop-off and pickup areas, or playgrounds.
- Give bicyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing.
- Designate a safe spot for school pick-up.
Download Pedestrian and Bike Safety Print Materials>
Other Resources:
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/bicycle-safety
- https://www.txdot.gov/driver/share-road/bicycles.html
- https://www.gahighwaysafety.org/campaigns/bicycle-pedestrian-safety/
- http://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/pedestrians-and-bicyclists
- https://www.safekids.org/walkingsafelytips
- http://www.pedbikeinfo.org/
Sources:
- NHTSA FARS Data, 2021
- TxDOT CRIS Data, 2021-2022
- Texas Strategic Highway Safety Plan: https://www.texasshsp.com/emphasis-areas/pedestrian-safety/#demographics
- IIHS: https://www.iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics/detail/pedestrians
- IIHS: https://www.iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics/detail/bicyclists
Updated August 2023