The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is reminding local drivers to slow down and remain vigilant for pedestrians as September marks Pedestrian Safety Month across California. The department emphasized that taking extra precautions helps protect individuals walking and reduces the risk of crashes and injuries within communities, noting that walking should always be an easy and safe option for getting around any community.
In 2024, California experienced a significant number of pedestrian fatalities, with 1,090 people struck and killed while walking. This figure represented 28% of all traffic fatalities statewide that year.
Traffic Bureau Sergeant Ishii underscored the universal need for safe travel. "Everyone, regardless of how they travel, deserves to arrive at their destination safely," Sergeant Ishii stated. He added that drivers have a critical role in ensuring the safety of people walking, noting that focused attention and reduced speeds, particularly in areas with higher pedestrian activity, are key to preventing crashes and prioritizing safety on every journey.
The Sheriff’s Department highlighted that pedestrians do not possess the same protections as occupants within vehicles. Therefore, adhering to speed limits and slowing down is crucial, as increased speed significantly escalates the severity and impact of a crash involving a pedestrian.
To promote safer roads for everyone, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department offers several safety tips for both drivers and pedestrians.
**For drivers, the department advises:** * Slowing down at intersections and being prepared to stop for people walking at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. * Avoiding distractions such as using mobile devices, engaging in deep conversations with passengers, or eating while driving, to keep full focus on the road. * Exercising extra caution when driving at night or in suboptimal conditions like rain or fog.
**For individuals walking, the Sheriff’s Department recommends:** * Utilizing marked crosswalks at signals where available, as drivers anticipate foot traffic in these locations. * Always using sidewalks. If a sidewalk is not present, walking facing oncoming traffic is advised. * Looking both ways and making eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to ensure visibility and acknowledgment. * Enhancing visibility at night by wearing bright colors or reflective material, or by using a flashlight. * Refraining from wearing headphones or talking on the phone when crossing the street to maintain awareness of surroundings.
Funding for this safety program is provided through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, which is administered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
