Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety

In 2022, 7,522 pedestrians and 1,105 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes with motor vehicles.¹
In Texas, pedestrian fatalities totaled 841 while bicyclists totaled 106, in 2023. This is about a 12% for bicyclists and a 6% decrease for pedestrians.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
Most pedestrian deaths in 2022 occurred on weekends.¹
Exactly 85% of all pedestrian fatal and serious crashes occurred in urban areas.⁴
More than a quarter (26%) of all pedestrian fatalities occurred between 6 and 9:00 p.m. in 2022.⁴ This is the same time the majority of bicyclist fatalities also happen.⁵
In 2022, the number of pedestrian fatalities was highest in California (1,171) followed by Texas (813) and Florida (788).¹
In 2022, 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 unless the left side of the roadway or shoulder of the highway facing oncoming traffic is obstructed or unsafe.

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:

_Sources:

NHTSA FARS Data, 2022
TxDOT CRIS Data, 2023-2023
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 October 2024