Local law enforcement officials highlight Pedestrian Safety Month

BAY COUNTY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – October is National Pedestrian Safety Month and our communities are filled with locals and visitors walking around.

Whether it’s to enjoy the beautiful views, exercise, or get to work it’s important to look out for our pedestrians every day.

Local law enforcement officials are using Pedestrian Safety Month to encourage citizens to responsibly share the roadways, not just during pedestrian safety month, but every day.

Although it may seem easy to abide by the rules of the road, accidents involving pedestrians is a major issue in our communities.

“I think it’s it’s common sense, but it’s reminding ourselves of those common sense things that we need to be doing and just kind of bringing them back to the forefront on opportunities like this to educate the public,” City Police Deputy Chief John Moore said.

Deputy Chief Moore recommends wearing reflective, bright clothing and carrying a light to increase your visibility at night.

“About 80% of fatalities involving pedestrians occur at nighttime. So one of the biggest things that we like for pedestrians to do at all times is obviously use sidewalks when available, use crosswalks when available,” Moore said.

But pedestrians aren’t the only ones responsible for promoting road safety. Everyone should do their part.

“When you’re operating a motor vehicle you just have to be conscious and aware of where those pedestrians are. And then not only look for where you expect them but when you’re a driver, make sure you’re looking for pedestrians where you don’t expect them either,” Florida Highway Patrol Public Affairs Officer Sgt. Nathan Russell said.

Sergeant Russell also says this message is crucial to our community since the year-round beautiful weather keeps people outside and on foot.

Officials say both motorists and pedestrians must pay attention and be mindful of each other, you could say it is a two-way street.

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