Pedestrian safety, especially for children walking or biking to school, is a major concern across the United States. In Pennsylvania, improving pedestrian safety near schools has become a priority in many communities. This article will examine some of the unique risks children face as pedestrians in Pennsylvania, and strategies being implemented to reduce those risks.
Pedestrian Risks for Children in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of the most dangerous states for child pedestrians. Many factors contribute to these risks:
- Older infrastructure in cities and towns not designed for pedestrian safety
- High traffic volumes and speeds near schools
- Driver inattention and failure to yield to pedestrians
- Lack of crosswalks, signals, and other pedestrian infrastructure
Children face particular risks as pedestrians because of their size, unpredictability, and underdeveloped ability to judge traffic conditions. Walking along high-speed roads or crossing wide busy streets can be especially dangerous.
Strategies for Improving Pedestrian Safety
Many Pennsylvania communities are taking action to reduce pedestrian risks for students traveling to and from school:
School Zone Signage and Speed Enforcement
Clearly marked school zones alert drivers to slow down, while increased police enforcement deters speeding. Some districts have implemented speed cameras in school zones as well.
Sidewalk Networks and Crossing Guards
Ensuring sidewalk connectivity from neighborhoods to schools provides safe walking routes. Adult crossing guards can assist children at dangerous intersections and crosswalks.
Traffic Calming Measures
Installing traffic circles, speed humps, narrowed traffic lanes, and other physical measures force drivers to slow down.
Pedestrian Signals and Refuge Islands
Signals with countdown timers allow ample crossing time. Refuge islands provide a protected place for pedestrians to stop at wide or complex crossings.
Bike Facilities
Designated bike lanes, trails, and parking at schools encourage cycling and separation from traffic.
Education and Encouragement
Schools and communities can teach children pedestrian skills while encouraging walking/biking through events like Walk and Roll to School Days.
Statewide Initiatives for Pedestrian Safety
In recent years, Pennsylvania has also implemented statewide initiatives aimed at improving pedestrian safety and ensuring funding for local improvements:
In 2014, PennDOT established a Highway Safety Corridor program, allowing targeted enforcement and safety measures on high-crash roadways. Several of the identified corridors are near schools.
The Automated Red Light Enforcement program uses camera technology to catch and ticket red light runners. Fines from violations help fund pedestrian safety projects statewide.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health’s WalkWorks program provides grants to communities for projects such as sidewalk improvements, crosswalks, and traffic calming near schools.
PennDOT’s annual Multimodal Transportation Fund offers grant opportunities to municipalities pursue pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure projects.
Community Role in Improving Safety
While state programs provide resources, local engagement is critical for identifying problem areas and building support for pedestrian safety initiatives. Parent-led groups can advocate for safer routes to schools. Schools can host walkability assessments and workshops teaching children safe walking skills. Community members can call for traffic calming and law enforcement around schools. Residents and city officials must collaborate to prioritize pedestrian safety.
Improving pedestrian safety requires a multi-pronged approach. Pennsylvania communities are making strides to reduce risks through programs and infrastructure improvements, but more work remains to ensure the safety of children traveling to and from schools.
If your child has been struck by a car, motorcycle, or other vehicle, it is vital that you speak to a pedestrian accident lawyer from Monge & Associates. We have offices in 32 locations and 19 states, including Pennsylvania, Nebraska, and Kansas.
Call now for a free consultation on (888) 477-0597.