October is Pedestrian Safety Month, "a time to remind everyone that at some point during the day, we are all pedestrians," said a news release from the Maine Dept. of Public Safety. "Whether walking to work or school, running errands, exercising, or enjoying Maine’s beautiful fall foliage, pedestrians and drivers share the responsibility for keeping Maine’s roadways safe."

The Bureau urges drivers to slow down, stay alert, and watch carefully for pedestrians. Pedestrians are encouraged to remain alert, watch for vehicles, and take steps to make themselves as visible as possible.

In 2024, an average of 71,635 pedestrians were injured and 7,080 were killed in traffic crashes across the U.S., highlighting the serious safety risks pedestrians face on our nation’s roadways, the release said.

In Maine, pedestrians accounted for 14 percent of traffic-related fatalities over the past four years.

“Roads are what connect us to our community, but pedestrians are amongst the most vulnerable people using them," said Windham Police Department’s Sergeant Cook, in the release. "Regardless of whether you’re a pedestrian or driver, it’s everyone’s responsibility to stay alert and look out for one another. As a law enforcement officer my goal isn’t to simply issue citations but to help change driver behavior for the better, so everyone can get home safely.”

“Drivers should be extra cautious on roadways where there is a lot of foot traffic,” said Bureau of Highway Safety Director Lauren Stewart. “Pedestrians also play an important role in their own safety by staying alert and making themselves visible. Bright-colored or reflective clothing and flashlights can help pedestrians be seen by passing drivers, especially as the days get shorter and nighttime arrives earlier.”

The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety offers the following tips to help drivers and pedestrians safely navigate Maine roadways:

Drivers

•Yield to pedestrians and give them plenty of space around crosswalks so other drivers can see them. Never pass a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk.

•Use extra caution at night and during rain, fog, or other conditions that make pedestrians more difficult to see.

•Follow the speed limit, particularly in areas with pedestrians, near schools, and in neighborhoods where children may be present.

•Be especially careful when backing up. Check carefully for pedestrians before and while moving your vehicle. Buckle Up. Drive Safely.

Pedestrians

•Wear bright or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight when walking in low-light conditions.

•Walk facing traffic when sidewalks are unavailable, and use sidewalks whenever possible.

•Stay focused on your surroundings. Avoid walking while distracted by phones, headphones, or earbuds.

•Choose well-lit areas whenever possible so you can see approaching vehicles and drivers can see you.

•Encourage children to walk with a buddy and teach them to look carefully for vehicles before crossing the street.

As Maine transitions into shorter days and longer nights, everyone can help prevent pedestrian crashes by slowing down, staying alert, and making safety a priority.

Be alert. Slow down. Be seen.