May Is Motorist, Cyclist, Pedestrian Safety Month

Many Missourians rely on walking and bicycling for transportation options. While both provide physical and health benefits, they also have the potential for serious or fatal injuries if involved in a motor vehicle crash.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), Trailnet and Metro Transit are partnering to kick off the “Safe Roads for All” initiative throughout May to enforce the need for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to share the road and be aware of one another’s safety. 

Frances Cole spoke at a news conference that kicked off the joint safety initiative. Her mother, Dr. Jennifer Cole, was hit and killed last summer while riding her bicycle. Jennifer Cole was the mother of four and was an accomplished athlete and pediatric anesthesiologist.   

“Pedestrians and bicyclists need to understand that they have primary responsibility for their own safety,” Ed Hassinger, MoDOT District Engineer for St. Louis region. “The motoring public also has a responsibility to share the road in a safe and courteous manner with these vulnerable road users.”

A livable community is one that provides safe and convenient transportation choices to all citizens, whether it’s by walking, bicycling, transit, or driving. During May, there is a significant increase in both cyclists and pedestrians on Missouri roads. 

In the last few years, pedestrian fatalities comprise 8% of Missouri's traffic crash fatalities. There were 2,483 people killed in Missouri traffic crashes from 2009 to 2011 where 203 of them were pedestrians. 

Another 1,271 pedestrians were injured in Missouri traffic crashes from 2009 to 2011. Pedestrian safety improvements depend on an integrated approach that involves engineering, enforcement, education and emergency services.

“Roads and sidewalks that are designed for safe, comfortable travel for cyclists and pedestrians make the roads safer for motorized users as well,” Ann Mack, Director of Trailnet, said. “When we design and maintain our roads for the most vulnerable user first and foremost, everyone benefits.”

“Public transit is a safe and economical means for people to get to work and play in our region,” John Nations, President and CEO of Metro said. “Many of our customers use sidewalks and bikes to access our transit system. It is important for all of us to promote safe and accessible travel for everyone.”

Tips for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists

• Obey all signs and signals and respect all road users.  
• A few minutes ‘saved’ through speeding endangers all users.  
• Try to get eye contact with other road users when proceeding through an intersection.
• Pedestrians need to use sidewalks. If you must walk in the street, walk single file, facing traffic and stay close to the edge of the road.
• Cross streets only at intersections or crosswalks.
• Don’t assume motorists will stop for you. Stay alert and choose to observe your immediate surroundings.
• Cyclists and pedestrians need to lighten up at night. Wear white or light colors and reflective strips. Have a friend observe you at night to help determine your visibility.