Pedestrian Crashes
Pedestrian crashes increased in 2010 compared to previous years. No specific cause for this sudden increase has been identified. Please help reverse this trend by exercising the appropriate caution as both a motorist and a pedestrian.
Common Types of Pedestrian Crashes
- Motorist Fails to Yield at Signalized Intersection
- Pedestrian Fails to Yield at Uncontrolled Location
Motorist Fails to Yield at Signalized Intersection
Tip for Motorists:
- Pedestrians move on the green light at the same time as motorists. Turning motorists must watch for and yield to these pedestrians.
- Don’t fixate on motor vehicle traffic. Look in the direction of your turn prior to making the turn.
- Be responsible for your vehicle. You can cause serious harm to others if you drive irresponsibly.
Tips for Pedestrians:
- Don’t trust the traffic signal lights. Look for turning traffic before proceeding and be alert for turning drivers who may not see you.
- Make eye contact with motorists make sure they see you before you proceed.
- Cross cautiously. Don’t put yourself at risk solely because you have the right of way. Remember that regardless of who is right you will be the one who is injured.
- Stay alert the entire time you are crossing.
Pedestrian Fails to Yield at Uncontrolled Location
Tip for Motorists:
- Be aware that pedestrians may cross anywhere. Always be alert for the possibility of the presence of pedestrians
Tips for Pedestrians:
- These types of crashes account for nearly 70% of severe injury/fatal pedestrian crashes in Fort Collins. Nearly all of the severe injury/fatal crashes of this type occurred at night.
- Don’t overestimate your visibility at night. Watch a quick video demonstration or read a detailed discussion of this problem.
- Don’t cross streets at arbitrary locations – especially at night. Use signalized crossings whenever possible.
- Even moderate amounts of alcohol can impair perception, attention and motor skills which can increase crash risk for pedestrians.
