Pedestrians account for 20% of all road fatalities with males accounting for most fatalities and serious injuries. Teenagers are also over represented. Approximately 30% or pedestrian casualties had a blood alcohol level of .05 or higher. People aged 60 years and over accounted for 16% of serious injury while representing only 16% of the population.

   A large proportion of pedestrian accidents happen between 3 and 6 pm. If a vehicle is travelling at 32 km/h 5% of pedestrians hit would be killed, 48 km/h - 40% would be killed and 64 km/h - 85% would be killed. A car travelling at 64 km/h will dissipate four times more energy in an accident than one travelling at 32 km/h.

   Children have limited cognitive and perceptual development and are easily distracted. Therefore their behaviour is unpredictable and they should be supervised by an adult while crossing roads. Older people have higher fatality rates because of their age and frailness. The majority of accidents occur away from pedestrian crossings.

PREVENTION STRATEGIES:

• Always cross at a pedestrian crossing if one is available

• Be aware of your surroundings, whenever you cross even at lights

• Always stop, look and listen and keep looking as you cross

• Always hold the hand of a child under the age of 5 years when crossing a road

• Never cross a road on a bend or curve

• Ensure that you have a clear view in all directions

• Be alert, never assume that a driver has seen you or intends to stop

• Wear bright coloured clothing and use coloured umbrellas and light colours if walking at night

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