October is National Pedestrian Safety Month. Awareness about pedestrian safety goes hand in hand with the City of Carlsbad’s overall and ongoing plan to promote traffic safety and awareness.

The Police Department will be working throughout the month to raise awareness about pedestrian safety and will emphasize - safe drivers, safe speeds and safe vehicles save lives.

The California Office of Traffic Safety reminds that we are all pedestrians at one point. We join OTS to share the message, “Drivers, please slow down and be extra careful around pedestrians. Put yourself in their shoes and drive how you would want someone to drive when you are walking.”

OTS goes on to note that there are at least two pedestrians killed on California roads every day. A number that has increased 40% between 2010 and 2019. Speeding, poor lighting, mid-block crossing and impairment are the main factors in pedestrian collisions. Here are some tips

Drivers

• Do not speed, slow down at intersections and be aware of what is going on around you.
• Be prepared and always stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Be aware of crosswalks and keep them clear while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
• Remove driving distractions. Anything that takes a driver’s attention away from the road is a distraction.

Pedestrians

• Use signalized crosswalks where drivers expect foot traffic.
• Watch for approaching vehicles and be careful crossing the street, especially busier streets with higher speed limits. Catch the eye of a driver before you step in front of their car to ensure they see you.
• Get in the habit of wearing light colors, reflective material, and walking with a flashlight and in well-lit areas at night so it is easier for drivers to see you.

The message is clear. All roadway users play a role in traffic safety. During Pedestrian Safety Month and every month, watch for pedestrians. Predict their behavior and avoid a deadly collision.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Police media contact
Jodee Reyes, Public Information Officer, jodee.reyes@carlsbadca.gov