(The Ohio State Highway Patrol)

The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is urging all Ohioans to prioritize pedestrian safety, reminding both motorists and pedestrians that safety is a shared responsibility on our roadways. This comes as the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recognize October as National Pedestrian Safety Month.

“By working together and eliminating distractions, we can make our roads safer for everyone,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Drivers should always be on the lookout for pedestrians, and pedestrians should always be careful to protect themselves.”

Everyone has a critical role to play in preventing pedestrian crashes. By taking a few simple precautions, both drivers and pedestrians can make Ohio’s roads safer for everyone.

Tips for Drivers:

• Never drive distracted: Your full attention is needed on the road. Avoid using your phone or other electronic devices.
• Yield to pedestrians: Always stop for pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections.
• Watch for pedestrians: Be aware of individuals walking in residential areas, school zones and at night.
• Slow down: Reduce your speed in areas with heavy foot traffic to give yourself more time to react.
• Use headlights: Turn on your headlights at dawn, dusk and at night to increase visibility for yourself and others.

 Tips for Pedestrians:

• Be visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night.
• Walk on sidewalks: Use a sidewalk whenever one is available. If there isn’t one, walk on the shoulder facing oncoming traffic.
• Cross safely: Cross the road at designated crosswalks or intersections. Look both ways before crossing, and make eye contact with drivers, if possible, to ensure they see you.
• Obey traffic signals: Follow all pedestrian traffic signals and signs.
• Avoid distractions: Similar to drivers, put away electronic devices that can take your eyes and ears off the road.

According to Patrol statistics, there have been 13,955 crashes involving pedestrians on Ohio roadways since 2020. Of those crashes, 862 were fatal, resulting in 869 pedestrian deaths. Within that same timeframe, Franklin, Cuyahoga and Hamilton counties have seen the highest number of pedestrian-related crashes.

“Preventing these tragedies is a responsibility we all share,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “A single moment of inattention by either the driver or pedestrian can have devastating consequences. Let’s commit to creating a culture of safety on Ohio’s roads.”

For more information on pedestrian safety, visit the NHTSA’s website here.

The public is encouraged to safely call #677 to report reckless or impaired drivers and drug activity.