Slow down, stay alert: October marks National Pedestrian Safety Month

JACKSON, Tenn. — October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, and officials urge drivers to slow down and stay alert for pedestrians.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, on average, a pedestrian dies every 72 minutes and one is injured every eight minutes in traffic crashes.

During October, it is especially important that drivers take extra caution as fall events and holidays see more pedestrians outside.

Chester County Sheriff Mark Griffin tells us more on the dangers of the haunting statistic of pedestrian fatalities in the state.

“In 2024, there was 174 pedestrians and cyclists killed in Tennessee, and one is too many,” said Sheriff Griffin. “So, we just want to spread the word out for people to be aware of pedestrians crossing the street, be aware of cyclists on the road. Be aware of your surroundings overall.”

The NHTSA urges drivers to use extra caution and to never pass vehicles at a crosswalk.

Also, follow the speed limit especially around people on the street, schools, and in neighborhoods where children are present.

“You know, in Tennessee, if you’re in a crosswalk, the pedestrian has the right of way, and that’s typically the biggest problem we see is people just doesn’t yield to them,” said Griffin.

AAA provides tips for pedestrians to stay safe near roadways: Try to stay visible, wearing light or reflective clothing. Avoid wearing headphones and limit distractions by putting your phone away.

“Even though you have the right of way in a crosswalk, stop before you just walk out,” said Griffin. “Stop. Look left, look right, look left again, then safely cross the street whenever you can. Just don’t assume these people are going to stop for you because they may not.”

AAA reminds that it is both drivers’ and pedestrians’ responsibility to keep themselves safe on the road.

While traffic fatalities saw a sharp drop in the first half of 2025, the NHTSA says the numbers still remain high and they are focused on reducing them.

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