September is recognized as Pedestrian Safety Month in California, and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is urging drivers to slow down and stay alert for pedestrians. The office highlights that taking extra precautions can help protect those walking on roads and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
According to data from the Governors Highway Safety Association, there were an estimated 7,148 pedestrian fatalities in traffic crashes across the United States in 2024. In California, pedestrian deaths account for more than 24 percent of all traffic-related fatalities.
“Every step we take towards greater pedestrian safety is a step towards saving lives,” said Sgt. Jared Hansen of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. “We want to remind everyone that safety begins with you, whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot. Small actions, like slowing down, putting away distractions and yielding at crosswalks can make a life-saving difference.”
The sheriff’s office notes that pedestrians are especially vulnerable compared to drivers and passengers. They point out that increasing vehicle speed from 20 MPH to 35 MPH greatly raises the chance that a pedestrian will be killed if struck.
Throughout September, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office will conduct traffic safety operations targeting behaviors such as speeding, illegal turns, failing to yield, and running stop signs or signals—violations identified as putting pedestrians at risk.
The agency also recommends both drivers and pedestrians avoid using phones while on the road or walking. Additional information about traffic safety can be found at www.gosafelyca.org.
Funding for these initiatives comes from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For further media inquiries regarding this initiative, contact the Media Information Bureau. Those interested in careers with the department are encouraged to visit joinrso.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD.
