October is National Pedestrian Safety Month

Sacramento – The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is supporting efforts by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) throughout October to improve pedestrian safety and help reduce pedestrian-related crashes and injuries.

October is National Pedestrian Safety Month. This observance recognizes the right of everyone to walk or roll safely and reminds drivers of their responsibility to stay alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users.

“Californians can do their part in reducing crashes and injuries by slowing down and being mindful of traffic,” said ABC Director Eric Hirata. “We can all look out for one another by keeping pedestrians in mind and following the rules of the road.”

OTS recommends these actions drivers and pedestrians can take to greatly reduce the risk of getting injured or in a crash, including staying off the phone when behind the wheel or walking:

Pedestrians

• Be predictable. Use crosswalks.
• Take notice of approaching vehicles and exercise caution. At 30 m.p.h., a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.
• Be visible. Make it easy for drivers to see you – wear light colors, reflective material and carry a flashlight, particularly at dawn, dusk, or at night.
• Be extra careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night when it is harder to see, or when crossing busier streets with more lanes and higher speed limits.

Drivers

• Follow the speed limit and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
• Never drive impaired.

To learn more about ABC programs that help protect communities and prevent alcohol-related harm visit ABC enforcement programs or ABC prevention.

Contact

Additional information may be obtained by contacting:

Public Information Office
3927 Lennane Drive, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95834
Email: pio@abc.ca.gov
Phone: (916) 419-2525

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