The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is reminding citizens that October is National Pedestrian Safety Month.
As daylight hours shorten in the coming weeks, drivers and pedestrians are encouraged to follow safe practices to make roadways safer for everyone.
“Whether you’re traveling by car, bike, or on foot, we’re reminding everyone to watch out for one another,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “When we stay alert, slow down, and look out for our neighbors on the road, we can help ensure everyone gets home safely.”
Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 2, as motorists should be “cautious because lower light conditions make seeing pedestrians and cyclists harder,” the transportation cabinet said.
Last year in Kentucky, 73 percent of the 98 pedestrian deaths occurred after dark. So far this year, there have been 59 pedestrian deaths, 42 of which occurred after dark.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Office of Highway Safety is partnering with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to promote safe driving and walking tips throughout October.
“Every driver, cyclist, and walker must be vigilant to do their part to keep our roads safe,” KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said. “Watching for walkers and staying visible are practical steps to stay safe especially at night.”
KYTC said the following practices are encouraged to improve safety for all road users:
Motorists
- Put the phone down and pay attention. Driving while distracted increases risk for all road users.
- Yield the right of way to pedestrians. Be especially careful at intersections when turning onto another street.
- Keep your windshield, windows and mirrors clean so you can scan the road ahead and establish a “visual lead.”
- Obey the speed limit. Driving at the posted limit allows you to see, identify and react in time to brake for pedestrians.
- Slow down and turn on your headlights during evening hours when you need more time to see a pedestrian in your path.
- Be aware in neighborhoods and school zones. Children are often the smallest pedestrians, making them harder to see. Additionally, younger children may dart into intersections without understanding the dangers.
- Drive sober. As with pedestrians, alcohol and drugs affect judgment, balance and reaction time. Always make a plan for a safe ride home.
- Buckle up. Wearing a seat belt gives you the best protection against injury and death.
Pedestrians
- Use crosswalks when available. Avoid jaywalking and crossing between parked vehicles.
- Walk on sidewalks whenever possible. If you must walk on the street, walk facing traffic.
- Don’t depend on the traffic signal to protect you. Motorists may be distracted, especially when adjusting to the nighttime travel environment.
- Increase visibility, especially at night. Carry a flashlight, wear reflective clothing or attach reflective materials – such as fluorescent tape – to clothing, backpacks, purses and briefcases. These materials reflect light from headlights back to drivers, making it easier to see you.
- Just because you can see a motorist does not mean the motorist can see you. If you cannot make eye contact or do not see the driver slow down for you, wait until the vehicle passes, even if you have the right of way.
- Put the phone down and pay attention. Distraction changes the way you walk, react and behave, including safety-related behaviors.
- Alcohol and drugs affect judgment, balance and reaction time, so always make a plan for a safe walk home.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
