Pedestrian Safety Tips

Staying Safe as a Pedestrian

With pedestrian fatalities at 40-year highs, following safety practices is more important than ever.

Crossing Streets Safely

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At Intersections
- Always use crosswalks when available
- Wait for the walk signal before crossing
- Look left, right, and left again before stepping off the curb
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing
- Continue watching for vehicles while crossing

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Mid-Block Crossings
- Only cross at designated crosswalks or corners
- If you must cross mid-block, yield to all vehicles
- Never assume drivers see you

Visibility Matters

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During Day
- Wear bright, visible clothing
- Make eye contact with drivers
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings

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At Night
- Wear reflective clothing or accessories
- Carry a flashlight
- Avoid dark clothing
- Walk in well-lit areas
- Be extra cautious - you're much harder to see

Distraction Dangers

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Avoid
- Texting while walking
- Wearing headphones that block traffic sounds
- Talking on the phone in crosswalks
- Looking at your phone instead of traffic

**Hawaii is the first state to ban distracted walking.**

Alcohol and Pedestrians

Nearly half of fatal pedestrian crashes involve alcohol - either the driver, pedestrian, or both.

- Don't walk along roads while intoxicated
- Use rideshare services instead
- Stay on sidewalks
- Be extra careful at night

Special Situations

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Parking Lots
- Walk in designated pedestrian lanes
- Be visible and make eye contact with drivers
- Watch for backing vehicles
- Stay alert - drivers are distracted

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School Zones
- Use crossing guards when available
- Cross only at designated crossings
- Watch for turning vehicles

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Construction Zones
- Follow temporary pedestrian routes
- Don't take shortcuts through work areas
- Be alert for construction vehicles

Teaching Children

- Hold hands with young children
- Teach them to stop at curbs
- Practice looking both ways
- Explain that cars can't stop quickly
- Never let children play near streets