October is Pedestrian Safety Month

As a part of the City of Sheboygan’s Complete Streets initiative, the Department of Public Works wants to make you aware of National Pedestrian Safety Month. A Complete Streets Policy helps create a safe transportation system that prioritizes people. It is designed to accommodate the mistakes people will make. Everyone—including those who plan, design, build, operate and use our transportation system—shares the responsibility for road safety. We must all work together using all available tools to assist in achieving zero serious injuries and fatalities on our city’s roadways and creating a transportation system that allows all people to get to their destinations safely and seamlessly.

October brings many changes, including reduced daylight hours. Both motorists and pedestrians should be conscious of each other, especially at night and in hard to see conditions. Pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing at night to increase their safety while walking. More pedestrian fatalities occur in the dark (77%) than in daylight (20%), dusk (2%) and dawn (2%) per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Infrastructure visibility enhancements—such as roadway lighting and improved crosswalk visibility through enhanced signage and markings—are shown to save pedestrian lives. Pedestrians should locate a well-lit area, preferably a crosswalk, where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.

School is in session, and that means increased foot and bicycle traffic in and around schools. Keep kids safe—don’t speed, and always watch out for pedestrians and cyclists. The average risk of death for a pedestrian reaches 10% at an impact speed of 23 mph, 25% at 32 mph, 50% at 42 mph, 75% at 50 mph and 90% at 58 mph. Risks vary significantly by age.

Walking is a great way to get the physical activity needed to obtain health benefits. Walking does not require any special skills, a gym membership or expensive equipment. A single moderate to vigorous walk can improve sleep, memory and the ability to think and learn. It can also reduce anxiety symptoms. Additionally, many people rely on walking as a mode of transportation for everyday activities, leisure and entertainment purposes. Walking also provides health, social and economic benefits along with environmental benefits that address the growing climate crisis and can lead to increased community engagement and healthier, quieter, cleaner and safer streets.