The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration encourages drivers to slow down and be alert for pedestrians.
On average, in 2024, a pedestrian died every 74 minutes and one was injured every 7 minutes in traffic crashes. There were an estimated 71,635 pedestrians injured in 2024 and 7,080 pedestrians were killed — a 4% decrease from 2023. But pedestrian fatalities still remain high in the United States, accounting for 18% of all traffic fatalities in 2024. This highlights a critical safety issue that impacts everyone.
“In Eureka we want to help ensure that our pedestrians are safe on the sidewalks, crossing the street — anywhere that people walk they should be able to do so without fear or stress. We urge drivers to take the time to look out for pedestrians, slow down, and incorporate pedestrian awareness into their driving routines,” said Sergeant Omey.
At some point during the day, everyone is a pedestrian. NHTSA offers these driving tips to keep everyone safe:
- Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions — 76% of pedestrian fatalities in 2024 occurred in the dark.
- Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street, around schools, and in neighborhoods where children are present.
- Drive sober — alcohol use (for the driver and/or pedestrian) was reported in 43% of all fatal pedestrian crashes in 2024.
- Always stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Look out for pedestrians everywhere and minimize blind spots.
- Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing where drivers can’t see.
October is recognized as National Pedestrian Safety Month, which is especially timely as more pedestrians will be out towards the end of the month for Halloween. Drivers should be aware that on Halloween evening, there will likely be more pedestrians on the roads and in unexpected places. Families will be trick-or-treating with children who may be unaware of surrounding traffic and quick to dart into the street.
For more information about pedestrian safety, please visit NHTSA.gov/Pedestrian.