More Virginians in their 30s who are on foot are dying in pedestrian-related crashes, according to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
The department said that while the number of people who have been killed in pedestrian crashes has declined from last year, the number who are in their 30s rose by 10 percent with nearly half of the deaths involving pedestrians who had been drinking.
The DMV said of the 89 pedestrians killed this year, 23 were in their 30s. Last year, 112 had died, with 11 in their 30s.
Most of the fatal pedestrian crashes in the last four years occurred in urban areas after dark, and involved pedestrians crossing the road improperly or walking in the road.
“If you go for a night out on the town, always plan a safe way home,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey. “Call a licensed transportation service or designate a sober driver. Or, if you choose to walk, take the time to cross at an intersection, wait for the signal and make eye contact with the driver to make sure they plan to stop. Please walk safely and walk sober so you can arrive alive.”
DMV’s Pedestrian Safety Task Force suggests walkers wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight at night, make eye contact with drivers before crossing at crosswalks and intersections, and walk facing traffic. Other recommendations include watch for cars backing up and avoid drugs and alcohol to remain alert.
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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