Stand Out, Let's all get there safely: October is Pedestrian Safety Month
As fall sets in across Oregon, the days grow shorter, the skies darker, and the rain more frequent. October marks Pedestrian Safety Month, a critical time to remind everyone - whether walking, biking, or driving - to stay alert and prioritize safety on our streets.
With reduced daylight and increased wet weather, visibility becomes a real challenge. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or just out for a walk or ride, it's important to take extra precautions to keep yourself and others safe.
Tips for Pedestrians
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Be Visible: Wear light-colored or reflective clothing, especially during early morning, evening, and nighttime hours. Consider carrying a flashlight or wearing LED accessories.
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Use Crosswalks: Always cross at marked intersections or crosswalks when available. Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.
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Avoid Distractions: Stay off your phone while crossing streets and keep earbuds at a low volume to remain aware of your surroundings.
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Be Predictable: Follow traffic signals and walk on sidewalks when available. If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from vehicles as possible.
Tips for Bicyclists
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Light Up: Oregon law requires a white front light and a red rear light or reflector when riding at night or in low-light conditions. Make sure your lights are working properly.
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Wear Reflective Gear: Reflective tape, vests, or decals on your bike and clothing can make you much more visible to drivers.
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Ride Defensively: Assume that drivers may not see you, especially in rainy conditions or at night. Signal your turns and obey traffic signs and signals.
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Be Predictable and Alert: Don’t weave between cars or make sudden moves. Always scan the road ahead for obstacles and hazards.
Tips for Drivers
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Slow Down: Wet roads and low visibility mean longer stopping times. Reduce your speed, especially in neighborhoods, near schools, and at intersections.
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Watch for People Walking or Biking: Be extra vigilant at night, during rain, and in poorly lit areas. Use your headlights earlier in the evening and keep your windshield and mirrors clear.
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Yield to Pedestrians at Crosswalks: It's not just courteous, it's the law. Give people plenty of time and space to cross safely.
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Avoid Distractions: Put the phone away and stay focused. Even a moment of distraction can lead to a serious accident.
Let’s Look Out for Each Other
As Oregonians, we’re used to the rain, but that doesn’t mean we should take visibility and safety for granted. Whether you’re on foot, on two wheels, or behind the wheel, a few extra precautions can make a big difference.
Let’s work together to keep our community safe this fall and winter. Stand Out. Stay alert. Get there safely.
Download Pedestrian Safety Month Flyer to help share these tips with your community.
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