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Pedestrian safety is about valuing every life on the road by creating safe environments for all road users. So the next time you step out, use zebra crossings, walk safely, remain vigilant and be alert
Every road user — be it a pedestrian, driver, or cyclist — has a role to play in making our streets safer. (News18)
A large number of pedestrian fatalities occur on the roads every year. Pedestrians accounted for nearly 20% of all road crash deaths in India in 2023. A majority of these incidents could have been avoided if people were made aware of road safety guidelines.
Key Challenges to Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrians are the most vulnerable of road users. Some of the key challenges to pedestrian safety are:
- Driver Negligence: Overspeeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield to pedestrians are some of the major causes leading to injuries or deaths of people walking on the roads. The situation becomes even more precarious in the absence of designated crossing for pedestrians.
- Low Awareness Level: Drivers alone are not responsible for the safety of pedestrians. Jaywalking contributes to many pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
Basic Steps to Pedestrian Safety
- Use zebra crossings: Zebra crossings and pedestrian bridges are built to ensure your safety. Never cross a road until the traffic signal turns green.
- Use of reflective gear: Wearing light or reflective clothing, particularly during dawn, dusk, or late evening, significantly increases your visibility to drivers, making it much easier for them to see you from a distance and potentially preventing crashes.
- Do not use phones: Your phone can wait. Never become distracted by texting or listening to music while crossing roads. Distraction can lead to injuries or even deaths.
- Cross roads safely: Make sure a vehicle comes to a complete stop if you have to cross a roadway. Never assume a vehicle will slow down or stop because you are in its path.
Strict Implementation of Traffic Rules
Making drivers give way to pedestrians at crossings and ensuring speed limits in areas of high footfall can save numerous lives.
Changing the Mindset
Pedestrian safety is not only about infrastructure or implementing rules. It is also about creating a culture where drivers and pedestrians respect each other. Both drivers and pedestrians have a responsibility to share the road safely.
Stories that Inspire Change
In Chandigarh, authorities have introduced a pedestrian-friendly model of raised crossings, dedicated walking zones, and strict penalties for jaywalking and speeding. There has been a 30% decrease in pedestrian fatalities over five years. This only goes to show that small changes can lead to big results.
A Shared Responsibility
Every road user — be it a pedestrian, driver, or cyclist — has a role to play in making our streets safer. Pedestrian safety is about valuing every life on the road by creating safe environments for all road users. So the next time you step out, use zebra crossings, walk safely, remain vigilant and be alert.
