The Texas Department of Transportation this month launched a pedestrian safety campaign, citing increased danger in fall and winter months.
“As we shift to fewer hours of daylight, it’s up to drivers and pedestrians to adapt and help keep our roads safe,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “Motorists need to stay alert and look for people walking, and pedestrians can take measures to be seen by drivers who may be inattentive behind the wheel.”
Drivers are reminded to yield the right of way to pedestrians when turning, slow down when passing stopped vehicles, putting phones away while driving and stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks.
Pedestrians are urged to cross only at intersections and crosswalks, make eye contact with drivers when doing so, put away electronics and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
In 2022, the month of October saw the largest number of crashes involving pedestrians.