Unlike people driving or riding in vehicles with seat belts, air bags and other safety features, bicyclists and pedestrians do not have the same level of protection and are more vulnerable every time they are on the road. In 2023, there were 1,106 people were struck and killed by vehicles, a nearly 9% decrease from 2022 but a staggering 56% increase from 2014. Furthermore, there were an additional 145 bicyclists struck and killed on California roads in 2023. The OTS bicycle and pedestrian safety programs target all age groups to raise awareness about traffic rules, rights, and responsibilities, whether you are driving, walking or bicycling. Specifically, programs are designed for high-risk populations, including youth and older community members, in an effort to teach safe alternate transportation behaviors. Activities for youth include bicycle trainings and walking courses to build skills that make children comfortable getting to and from school. Additional outreach targets underserved and older communities to identify safety issues and demonstrate best safety practices in real time.
PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM AREA GOALS
- Reduce the total number of pedestrians killed.
- Reduce the total number of pedestrians injured.
- Reduce the number of pedestrians killed under the age of 15.
- Reduce the number of pedestrians injured under the age of 15.
- Reduce the number of pedestrians killed over the age of 65.
- Reduce the number of pedestrians injured over the age of 65.
- Reduce the total number of bicyclists killed in traffic related crashes.
- Reduce the total number of bicyclists injured in traffic related crashes.
- Reduce the number of bicyclists killed in traffic related crashes under the age of 15.
- Reduce the number of bicyclists injured in traffic related crashes under the age of 15.
- Increase bicycle helmet compliance for children aged 5 to 18.
