Pedestrian Safety
Arizona Highway Safety Challenges: Pedestrian and Cyclist Fatalities
In recent years, Arizona has experienced a rise in pedestrian and cyclist fatalities throughout the years. This trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and increased awareness among all road users.
To combat these challenges, several key areas must be addressed:
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Infrastructure Improvements: Prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety is crucial. This includes building safer crosswalks, installing traffic-calming measures, creating separated bike lanes, and improving street lighting in high-traffic areas. Well-designed, pedestrian-friendly environments can significantly reduce collision risks.
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Education and Awareness: Educating drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists about road safety is essential. Drivers must understand the importance of yielding to pedestrians and cyclists, following speed limits, and avoiding distractions. Similarly, non-motorized road users should learn to use crosswalks, wear visible clothing, and follow traffic signals.
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Law Enforcement: Targeted enforcement of traffic laws related to pedestrian and cyclist safety can deter dangerous driving behaviors. Police departments can focus on high-risk areas, cracking down on violations that endanger vulnerable road users.
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Collaboration and Partnerships: Government agencies, community organizations, transportation departments, and advocacy groups must work together to share resources and best practices. These partnerships can drive comprehensive strategies to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Arizona GOHS and its partners are committed to reducing fatalities through targeted strategies, including infrastructure improvements, educational campaigns, and law enforcement efforts. Focused on underserved communities, older adults, and children, these initiatives aim to create safer roads for everyone. By fostering community involvement and promoting a culture of road safety, Arizona can work toward protecting its most vulnerable road users.
Traffic Safety Facts: Children
Traffic Safety Facts: Older Population
Traffic Safety Facts: Pedestrians
FHWA Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety Resource Page
Arizona Department of Transportation Bicycle & Pedestrian Program
ADOT's Share the Road Guide
Pedestrian Motor Vehicle Injury Prevention Crossword Puzzle
Pedestrian Motor Vehicle Injury Prevention Word Puzzle