National Pedestrian Safety Month: Keeping Tampa Bay Moving Safely

October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, a time to highlight the importance of looking out for pedestrians and creating safer roads for everyone.

Pedestrian safety is an important part of a connected transportation system. In 2024, 7,080 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That averages to one pedestrian death every 74 minutes.

Everyone has a role to play in reducing these numbers. Drivers should stay alert, follow posted speed limits, yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and avoid distractions. Pedestrians can help protect themselves by using sidewalks and designated crosswalks, following traffic signals, staying visible and remaining aware of their surroundings.

At the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA), safety is incorporated into projects that help improve mobility throughout Tampa Bay. The South Selmon Capacity Project includes improvements to 14 underpasses, including new sidewalks and lighting, helping enhance pedestrian access and safety along the corridor.

This October, THEA encourages everyone to slow down, stay alert and share the road. By working together, we can help make Tampa Bay’s transportation system safer and more accessible for everyone.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Traffic Safety Marketing, Pedestrian Safety.