The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently shared estimates of US motor vehicle traffic fatalities for 2022. The good news is that overall traffic fatalities declined slightly. The bad news is that fatalities have continued to rise in two key areas that affect children – cyclists and pedestrians. In fact, fatalities were up 8% among cyclists and 2% among pedestrians. Cars are much heavier and faster than cyclists or pedestrians so it’s incumbent on drivers to be vigilant and take responsibility for safety. As drivers, we must be ready to change or improve our driving behaviors to keep everyone safe.
Here are some things that drivers can do to reduce bicycle fatalities.
Slow down – Drive at or below the speed limit.
Be alert for people walking and cycling.
Look twice before making a turn and come to a complete stop before turning on red.
Remember that when there isn’t enough room for a car and bicycle to ride side by side safely, the bicyclist has the right to use the entire lane.
Limit all driving distractions – phone, radio, eating, etc. Distracted drivers make the roads unsafe for EVERYONE.
Here are some things that drivers can do to reduce pedestrian fatalities.
Slow down – Drive at or below the speed limit.
Keep an eye out for pedestrians no matter where you are driving. When you see a pedestrian, yield and give them the right of way no matter where you are.
Use extra caution on weekend nights since pedestrian fatalities tend to peak on Saturday nights.
Use your headlights every time you get in the car.
Limit all driving distractions – phone, radio, eating, etc. Distracted drivers make the roads unsafe for EVERYONE.