MONTEREY COUNTY — September is Pedestrian Safety Month in California, and Monterey County Health Department is reminding drivers to slow down and be alert for people walking on the roads.
Pedestrian deaths make up more than 24% of all traffic-related fatalities in California. Nationally, an estimated 7,148 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in 2024, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. Higher speeds are associated with an increased likelihood that a pedestrian will be killed if struck by a vehicle.
“Every step we take toward greater pedestrian safety is a step toward saving lives,” said Evilin López Zavala, Chronic Disease Prevention Specialist with the Health Department. “Safety begins with you, whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot. Small actions when driving like slowing down, eliminating distractions and yielding at crosswalks can make a life-saving difference.”
Monterey County Health Department offers the following safe driving and walking tips:
Drivers
- Stay off the phone when behind the wheel.
- Do not speed.
- Slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
- Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a turn.
- Never drive impaired.
- Avoid distractions such as texting or eating while driving. Keep your focus on the road.
Pedestrians
- Be predictable. Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.
- Look both ways and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.
- Help drivers see you at night by wearing bright colors and reflective material or using a flashlight.
- Be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night and on busier streets.
- Keep your eyes up and your phone down.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Visit gosafelyca.org for more traffic safety information.
