Pedestrians Crossing the Street

Pedestrian Safety

IN THE COMMUNITY

AAA considers pedestrian safety a priority. Traffic Safety Leads are in schools daily, educating children about safe walking skills.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, 4,092 pedestrians were killed and an estimated 59,000 were injured in traffic crashes in the United States. On average, a pedestrian is killed in a motor vehicle crash every 128 minutes and one is injured every 9 minutes. In 2009, pedestrian deaths accounted for 12 percent of all traffic fatalities in motor vehicle crashes. On a positive note, since 2000, the number of pedestrian fatalities has decreased by 14 percent. Drivers should always be alert to handicapped pedestrians, observing all advance warning signs of seeing or hearing impaired pedestrians. Show extra caution and be prepared to stop for pedestrians:

  • with guide dogs
  • carrying canes that are predominantly white or metallic in color
  • in wheelchairs, motorized scooter, or crutches
Review the tips below, and visit AAA.com/PedestrianSafety for more information from AAA National.

Traffic Safety Programs & Materials

Safe Walking Tips

  • Cross at crosswalks. Keep to the right in the crosswalk.
  • Before crossing look all ways.
  • At signalized intersections, cross only on the proper signal.
  • Avoid crossing between parked cars.
  • Watch for cars. Be sure that the way is clear before you start crossing. Continue looking and checking while crossing.
  • Where there is no sidewalk and it is necessary to walk in the roadway, walk on the left, facing traffic.
  • Wear or carry retro-reflective material at night to help drivers see you.

children

  • Go directly to or from your destination using the safest route.
  • Cross at corners.
  • Cooperate with police, crossing guards and school safety patrols.
  • Learn and obey all traffic signals.
  • WALK across streets. Allow yourself plenty of time. Continue to look for approaching vehicles.
  • Stop, look and listen and watch for turning vehicles.
  • If you must walk on a road that has no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far from the road as possible.
  • Be extra alert in bad weather. Drivers have trouble seeing and stopping in bad weather.
  • If you must walk after dark, wear retro-reflective or light colored clothing and carry a flashlight.
  • Stay alert. Don't assume that cars are going to stop.