A 31-year-old Specialist assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, died in a pedestrian mishap 9 December 2022, at 0936 local. The Soldier was walking south along Knox Street, when he attempted to cross at an intersection but failed to ensure that all lanes were clear. Traffic moving along Knox Street had a green light and one driver realized the Soldier was about to cross and stopped. A second vehicle did not see the Soldier when he entered his lane and struck the Soldier. The Soldier was transported to the local medical center. Upon arrival, he was pronounced dead.
Since 2018, the Army has lost an average of six Soldiers a year to pedestrian mishaps. This mishap was the first pedestrian fatality of FY23 and above the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.
At some point in the day, everyone is a pedestrian. Unfortunately, pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high. In 2020, 6,516 pedestrians were killed, and an estimated 55,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration raises awareness of the dangers to pedestrians and provides tips to keep them safe.
Walking Safety Tips
1.Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
2.Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
3.If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
4.Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
5.If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
6.Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
7.Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.
8.Embrace walking as a healthy form of transportation - get up, get out and get moving.