Child Pedestrian Safety

Walking Safety

• Walk on a sidewalk.
  • If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the street facing oncoming traffic.
• Watch for cars that are turning or backing up.
• Walk with an adult until you are at least 10 years old.
• If you walk when it is dark, wear light-colored clothing or clothing with reflective material so drivers can see you. A flashlight is also a good idea.
• Make sure your child takes the same route to common destinations every time.
  • Walk with your child to find the safest path.
  • Look for the most direct route with the fewest street crossings.
• When you are outside playing, play in a backyard or playground away from the street or parking lots.

Street Entry

• Cross the street at the corner or at a crosswalk if there is one, and obey all traffic signals and signs.
• Do not enter the street from between parked cars or behind bushes or shrubs.
• Never run into a street without stopping.
  • Darting into the street accounts for the majority of child pedestrian fatalities
• If a toy or pet goes out into the street, ask an adult for help getting it back.
• Hold an adult’s hand when you cross the street.
  • Look left, right, and left again before you cross and keep looking both ways until you reach the other side.
• Only cross in front of a school bus when the driver says it is safe.
  • Do not cross behind the bus or where the driver can’t see you.