The Official Website of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS)

Public Safety

Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrian Safety

Mother and child crossing road artwork

 

 

 

 

 

 

Approximately 17.2% of all motor vehicle-related fatalities involved pedestrians in Massachusetts in 2004.  That year there were 268 serious injuries and 82 fatalities. Nationally, in 2004, 4,641 pedestrians were killed and 68,000 were injured. Older pedestrians (ages 65 and older) accounted for 20.2% of all pedestrian fatalities nationally and 39% of all pedestrian fatalities in Massachusetts. of all pedestrians injured. Youths ages 15 and under accounted for 8.5% of all pedestrian fatalities nationwide and 6% of those in the Commonwealth. Those 15 years old and under also accounted for 29% of all pedestrians with serious injuries nationally. In Massachusetts, this age group accounted for only 16.8% of all serious injuries.

Many are quick to blame drivers for pedestrian fatalities and injuries. Yet the most frequent cause is pedestrian error. A large majority of pedestrian fatalities take place outside a crosswalk. To reduce their risk, walkers must learn what traffic laws apply to them and then adhere to them at all times. To improve pedestrian safety at the community-level, police departments, highway departments and school departments need to consider pedestrian issues during their annual planning processes.

To improve pedestrian safety, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security's Highway Safety Division (EOPSS-HSD) supports community-based programs, offers trainings and conferences, and provides public information.

  • 2009 Moving Together Conference  

    October 14, 2009 in Boston, MA

    Bicycling and walking are becoming increasingly visible and important across the Commonwealth and across the country. This day-long annual statewide bicycling and walking conference will feature up-to-date workshops and exhibits focused on improving bicycling and walking conditions locally, regionally, and statewide. The conference will take place at the Courtyard Boston Hotel on 275 Tremont Street, Boston, MA.

    The conference registration fee is $50 ($60 at the door) and includes workshops, conference materials, continental breakfast, and lunch. Please note that registration is limited so register early to secure your place. For more registration information, please contact Baystate Roads at (413) 545-2604 or register online at www.baystateroads.org/mt/mt2009.

    This event is sponsored by the Executive Office of Transportation and Public Works, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, MassHighway, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Department of Public Health, the Highway Safety Division, and the Federal Highway Administration.