The Delaware Office of Highway Safety (OHS) has revived its grassroots pedestrian safety initiative statewide to coincide with Pedestrian Safety Month.
Pedestrian street teams will be aboard Delaware Transit Corp. buses that travel routes with higher instances of pedestrian accidents and fatalities. The street teams will educate riders on safe walking habits and will distribute reflectors.
Pedestrian accidents generally involve people wearing dark-colored clothing and distracted walking, including being under the influence.
Crossing outside of crosswalks on busy roads also is a factor. These roads include DuPont Highway, Kirkwood Highway, and Pulaski Highway.
“Data continues to show that October is the deadliest month related to crashes occurring in Delaware, with the highest occurrences of pedestrian fatalities and injuries,” Kimberly Chesser, OHS director, said. “In addition, pedestrian crashes peak around evening rush hour from 5 to 8 p.m. This is precisely why we have decided to bring back our grassroots initiative to stress the importance of safe walking habits especially during this time frame. We would like to thank DART for partnering with us on such an important initiative, helping to make sure that our riders and pedestrians Walk Smart.”
Pedestrian Safety Month is aimed at reducing pedestrian deaths throughout Delaware. Street teams will be on buses through Oct. 20.