This spring, TxDOT is holding its “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign to remind Texans why it’s important to follow traffic laws to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe.
In 2022, 922 people died in traffic crashes involving pedestrians and bicyclists in Texas, accounting for one out of every five fatalities on the state’s roadways. It’s a part of a rising trend in recent years as pedestrian fatalities increased 30% and bicyclist fatalities increased 28% in the five years from 2018 to 2022.
“Too many people are killed or seriously injured every year in Texas walking, jogging or biking in their communities,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “We want all Texans— whether you’re behind the wheel, on foot or on a bike—to watch out for each other and follow the rules of the road so everyone gets where they’re going safely.”
“Be Safe. Drive Smart.” urges all Texans to learn and follow the laws for safe driving, walking and biking. As part of this effort, TxDOT is sending teams of walking billboards to cities around the state to put key safety reminders in front of drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists in crash-prone areas.
While driving in Texas, state law requires individuals to: Stop and yield for pedestrians, bicyclists and other vulnerable road users in crosswalks; When turning, yield the right of way to pedestrians and bicyclists; Pass bikes at a safe distance and give bicyclists room to ride; and Always follow the speed limit and drive at a safe speed.
If someone is walking: Cross the street only at intersections and crosswalks; Obey all traffic signs and signals, including at crosswalks; and Use sidewalks. If there’s no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, unless the left side is obstructed or unsafe.
If someone is riding a bike: Always stop at red lights and stop signs; Ride in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes or ride as near as possible to the righthand curb; and Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
At night, ensure the bike has a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the back.