Help curb this epidemic by driving slowly, driving defensively and staying alert behind the wheel.

Reduce Speed

Driving slowly can increase your reaction time and help save a pedestrian’s life. The faster you drive, the higher risk of them becoming critically injured and not surviving. Watching your speed is especially crucial in school zones and during holidays, such as Halloween where there will be plenty of children darting across roads.

Be Visible

Driving at night and during inclement weather can make visibility problematic. As a motorist there are a few techniques, you can do to make yourself visible during this time of year. Use your headlights to alert other drivers and pedestrians of your presence. Make sure your headlights are properly aligned as misaligned headlines can be hazardous. Keep your car windshield and mirrors clean and streak-free to help you see better. Streaks and dirt on your windshield or mirror may not appear during the day but at night they can be more visible and cause glare. When driving, you can also wear bright clothing or reflective gear to help others see you.

What Pedestrians Can Do

Pedestrians can also help curb this epidemic and prevent injuries from happening by:

• Not being a “distracted walker.” Avoid looking down at your phone or listening to music loudly.
• Pay attention and look for vehicles on the road before crossing.
• Cross streets at crosswalks.
• Make sure oncoming vehicles come to a full stop and see you before crossing.
• Be visible at night by wearing bright or reflective clothing.

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