Teens in the Driver Seat

A peer-to-peer safe driving program for your school.

Text iDrive to 31996 for text messages.

Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety

  • In 2018, 6,283 pedestrian and 857 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes with motor vehicles. (NHTSA)
  • In Texas, pedestrian fatalities totaled 622 while bicyclists totaled 70, in 2018. This is a 24.56% increase from 2017. (CRIS)
  • Overall, male pedestrians approximately ages 15 years and older were over represented. For drivers involved in pedestrian crashes, the greatest proportion were younger (under age 35 years) and male drivers. (texasshsp.com)
  • The majority of pedestrian deaths in 2018 occurred on Fridays and Saturdays.  (IIHS)
  • Exactly 78% of all pedestrian fatal and serious crashes occurred in urban areas. (texasshsp.com)
  • More than a quarter (26%) of all pedestrian fatalities occurred between 6 and 9:00 p.m in 2018. This is the same time the majority of bicyclist fatalities also happen. (IIHS).
  • In 2018, the number of pedestrian fatalities was highest in California (893) followed by Florida (704) and then Texas(612). (NHTSA)
  • In 2018, pedestrian deaths accounted for 17% of all traffic fatalities. (NHTSA)

Pedestrian Safety Information

Use Sidewalks – When there is a sidewalk, use it! Most pedestrian traffic accidents happen when someone is walking in 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 in 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.

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 curb side of the street.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before you cross the street.
  • Avoid all distractions, such as cell phones and ear buds 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 play grounds.
  • 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>

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