Pedestrian Safety

The Department of Transport and Public Works would like to urge everyone to play a role in improving road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, passengers and drivers. Our Safely Home campaign encourages motorists to be vigilant on the road, and pedestrians to make themselves visible to motorists, especially at night and in the early morning.

A high percentage of pedestrians killed on the road who were tested for alcohol had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of more than 0.2 g per 100ml of blood, which is four times the legal limit for drivers. Male pedestrian fatalities are more likely to have a high BAC than females. Young males are the category of pedestrian most likely to die after drinking, with the highest risk being those aged 20 – 29 years. More than three times as many pedestrians die on Saturdays than on Wednesdays. If you are a pedestrian, stay away from freeways and busy roads, especially at night, and especially after consuming alcohol.

Always wear high visibility clothing, particularly in the evening and in bad weather. Walk-in groups when possible.

If you are a motorist, show consideration for pedestrians wherever they are. Pedestrians are almost always killed in collisions with vehicles travelling more than 60km per hour. Slowing down will give you more time to avoid pedestrians in the road. If you are travelling more slowly and you collide with a pedestrian, the pedestrian is more likely to survive.

Key messages

• Put the phone down and drive. Focus on what’s important, your driving.
• Slow it down. Speed kills. A 5% reduction in the average speed would reduce fatal crashes by 30%. Kill your speed, not a pedestrian.
• Wear Your Safety Belt. Airbags are not enough as they work in combination with seat belts.
• Wear a good-quality helmet. Wearing a helmet can reduce your risk of death by 40%
• Don’t drive impaired. It’s not worth it – get a designated driver or stay where you are. Don’t drink and drive. Alcohol and roads don’t mix.
• Share the Road. There are others using the road, bicyclists, pedestrians, commercial vehicles and we all have to get along to get to our destinations.
• Keep your cool while driving. Aggressive driving creates huge risks and responding to someone is fraught with peril.
• Get your rest before driving. Drowsy driving is a problem, and sleep is the only solution.
• Stop on Red. Intersection crashes are some of the deadliest. When the light is red – Stop.
• Road safety is a concern for everyone. Remember that your actions impact yourself and others. What could be more important when driving than getting to your destination safe and sound? Stay focused and drive.
• Be smart, walk safely. If you are not seen on the road, you may not see your future.

#SafeRoadsForAll #WalkSafe