Pedestrian Safety Frequently Asked Questions

• Are pedestrian deaths and injuries a big problem?
  Annually, pedestrian deaths account for a large percentage of all motor vehicle-related fatalities in the U.S. Thousands of pedestrians are injuried or killed in traffic crashes every year in the United States.

• Where do most pedestrian deaths occur?
  Most pedestrian deaths occur in large urban areas. In cities with a population exceeding 1 million, pedestrians account for about 35 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities.

• Does alcohol impairment contribute to pedestrian deaths?
  Almost one-third of all adult pedestrians fatally injured in traffic crashes have blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) of 0.10 percent or more. At night, more than half of all adult pedestrians fatally injured in traffic crashes have BACs of 0.10 percent or more. (IIHS Status Report: Vol. 34, No. 3, March 13, 1999)

• Who is most at risk in terms of pedestrian fatalities?
  Elderly pedestrians, age 70 and above, are at the greatest risk for pedestrian fatalities.

• How do most pedestrian injuries occur?
  Most pedestrians are struck by the front of a passenger vehicle.

• What is jaywalking?
  Jaywalking is crossing the street at any point other than a crosswalk or corner.

• What is the correct way to scan before crossing the street?
  Stop, look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT, and over your shoulder for turning traffic before crossing.