Ohio State Highway Patrol Urges Caution During Pedestrian Safety Month

COLUMBUS – With the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recognizing October as National Pedestrian Safety Month, the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is stressing to both motorists and pedestrians that safety is a shared responsibility on our roadways.

“During National Pedestrian Safety Month, I want to remind drivers about the importance of following the speed limit, paying attention to the road ahead, and keeping an eye out for pedestrians,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Those who are walking or biking also have the responsibility to follow the rules of the road and watch out for traffic.”

In order for everyone to make it to their destination safely, whether they are behind the wheel or traveling on foot, each person must do their part to prevent crashes. Drivers can protect themselves and others by never driving distracted, yielding to pedestrians entering the roadway, following the posted speed limits and using their headlights when the situation calls for it.

Pedestrians can protect themselves by staying visible to oncoming traffic, walking on sidewalks, crossing the street safely, obeying traffic laws and signals and avoiding distractions while walking near roadways. According to Patrol statistics, there have been 14,391 crashes involving pedestrians on Ohio roadways since 2021. Of those crashes, 857 were fatal, resulting in 862 pedestrian deaths. Within that same timeframe, Franklin, Cuyahoga and Hamilton counties have seen the highest number of pedestrian-related crashes.

“Preventing these tragedies is a responsibility we all share,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “A single moment of inattention by either the driver or pedestrian can have devastating consequences. Let’s commit to creating a culture of safety on Ohio’s roads.” The public is encouraged to safely call #677 to report reckless or impaired drivers and drug activity.