TxDOT Reminding Residents To Simple “Watch out for each other!”

With spring just around the corner, the Texas Department of Transportation has important reminders for both drivers and pedestrians.

Simple “Watch out for each other!”

In Amarillo in 2019, there were 48 traffic crashes involving pedestrians, resulting in 6 fatalities and 17 serious injuries.

In 2019 alone, 5,975 traffic crashes involving pedestrians occurred in Texas, resulting in 669 deaths, a 5% increase in fatalities over the previous year. Another 1,317 people were seriously injured.

Crash reports from law enforcement indicate the two leading causes for pedestrian fatalities are: pedestrians failing to follow traffic safety laws and being struck when crossing streets and roadways, and motorists failing to yield the right of way, driving distracted or driving too fast.

Since 2015, TxDOT has spent $153 million in federal and state funding to upgrade sidewalks, curbs and striping for pedestrian accessibility, safety and mobility.

For drivers . . .

• When turning, yield the right of way to pedestrians.
• Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.
• Be cautious when passing stopped buses or other vehicles.
• Pay attention and put your phone away—pedestrians may enter your path suddenly.
• Obey the speed limit and drive to conditions.

For pedestrians . . .

• Cross the street only at intersections and crosswalks. Look left, right, then left again before crossing.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Don’t assume drivers see you.
• Obey all traffic and crosswalks signals.
• Use the sidewalk. If there isn’t one, walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic.
• When walking, put away electronic devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.
• Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night