Our efforts are mainly focused on drivers since ignition interlock devices are designed to stop drivers from getting behind the wheel after they have been drinking. But we do care about making the roads safer in general. While researching things related to driving, we came across an editorial article that caught our attention.

Can walking be dangerous too?

Of course we stress the importance of sober driving. We want the roads to be a safe place for other drivers and passengers. But what about pedestrians? Well, yea, of course we want them to be safe too!

In the news

If you pay attention to the news, you'll see lots of stories of pedestrians injured while walking. Some are attacked, some are hit by a vehicle, some are kidnapped. These are some really sad stories. Of course we all want to know what we can do to make ourselves safer when walking. The article we referenced above discussed the idea that drivers aren't the only ones distracted. In this distracted world we live in, pedestrians are also sometimes not focused on what they're doing (walking) and what's going on around them. According to the NHTSA, 6,516 pedestrians were killed and an estimated 55,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide in 2020 alone.

No victim shaming here

This is in no way meant to shame victims or imply it's their fault when something bad happens. We just all want to make our roads as safe as possible for everyone. 

The article starts by talking about how dangerous distracted driving is. "Experts studying trends in pedestrian fatalities point to some factors that reflect changing times. New vehicles are getting heavier. Some, notably electric models, accelerate faster than ever. “Distracted driving” is a nothing less than a public health crisis." It continues on to talk about things pedestrians do that aren't so safe (failing to observe pedestrian traffic signals, being distracted by electronics, etc). It discusses several factors that might be cause of latest pedestrian trends. "Ultimately, though, it’s the behavior of people that still needs some work. Whether you are behind the wheel, on foot or riding a bike, the safest way to reach your destination is to stay sober, and stay alert."

We all want the same thing

Whether we're driving, walking, or traveling some other way, we all want to get to our destination safely. The CDC offers the following advice on keeping yourself safe as a pedestrian:

• Increase your visibility when walking at night by carrying a flashlight and wearing reflective clothing, such as reflective vests.
• Cross streets at a designated crosswalk or intersection whenever possible.
• Walk on a sidewalk or path instead of the road. Walk on the shoulder and facing traffic if a sidewalk or path is not available.
• Avoid using electronic devices like earbuds, which can cause distractions when you are walking.
• Avoid walking if you have been using alcohol or drugs, which can impair judgement and coordination.

Let's all work together to keep the roads safer

Being distracted is dangerous. Being drunk is dangerous. Lots of things are dangerous. We all need to do our part to keep the roads safe. If you would like to see how our ignition interlock products might be able to help in that effort, call us or contact us today.