BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — With September being pedestrian safety month, the Bakersfield Police Department is urging California drivers to stay alert for pedestrians roads.
BPD said in California alone, over a thousand people were struck and killed while walking in 2024, making up about 28% of all traffic fatalities.
“Everyone, regardless of how they travel, deserves to arrive at their destination safely,” said Bakersfield Police Department Sergeant Davenport. “Drivers play a critical role in keeping people walking safe. By staying focused and slowing down, especially in areas where there are more people walking, we can help prevent crashes and put safety first on every trip.”
The department said that pedestrians don’t have the same protections as drivers and passengers, saying it’s important for drivers to slow down and obey speed limits while driving.
To stay safe while traveling, BPD is urging drivers to follow the speed limit, slow down at intersections, prepare to stop at marked and unmarked cross walks, to never drive impaired, to avoid distractions and phone use, to be extra cautious at night and when the weather is poor.
Law enforcement is also telling pedestrians to use marked crosswalks with traffic signals, to always walk on sidewalks and facing traffic, to look both ways and make eye contact with drivers when crossing the street, be visible at night by wearing reflective materials or carrying a flashlight and to not wear headphones or be on the phone while crossing the street.
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“By always taking extra precautions, you can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk
of crashes and injuries,” BPD said. “Walking should always be an easy and safe option for getting
around any community.”
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