The New Rochelle Police Department is participating in the Governors Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, a two-week education and enforcement period targeting the critical issue of pedestrian crashes. The initiative, which commenced on June 14, coincides with New York State’s comprehensive Pedestrian Safety Action Plan  (PSAP) and includes the distribution of warning cards and See! Be Seen! materials as well as enforcement.

Both drivers and pedestrians need to know and follow the rules of the road to assure pedestrian safety. It is a shared responsibility and both can be subjected to fines for not obeying vehicle and traffic laws. The majority of pedestrian-motor vehicle crashes involve driver error, including distraction, failure to yield, and speeding. Pedestrians are responsible for following vehicle and traffic laws as well. One out of four crashes with a pedestrian involve pedestrian error or inattention. Children and Older Adults (65+) are most vulnerable to pedestrian injuries and death.

“Pedestrian-traffic related injuries are the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for 1 to 9 year olds, and the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury-related hospital admissions for 5 to 9 year olds,” said Det. Sgt. Myron Joseph of the New Rochelle Police Department. “For Older Adults (65+), pedestrian-traffic injuries are the 2nd leading cause of unintentional injury- related deaths, and 2nd leading cause of unintentional, injury-related hospital admissions,” he added.

Statistics show that approximately 300 pedestrians are killed and 15,000 injured by motor vehicles each year on the state’s roadways and more than 3,000 pedestrians are admitted to the hospital annually. Injuries to pedestrians are among the top 10 leading causes of injury-related hospital admissions and death for almost all age groups In New York State.

In an effort to raise pedestrian safety awareness statewide, the “See! Be Seen!” educational campaign was created by the NYS Department of Health and Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee to provide safety tips for both pedestrians and drivers. More information and educational resources can be found on the New York State website.