After a significant and deadly surge in 2022, pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities in the metropolitan Washington region began to reverse the trend and decreased by 17 percent in 2023. Those fatalities represent more than 30 percent of total traffic deaths. Local and state officials are asking everyone to be alert and obey traffic safety laws to continue this decrease to make our streets safe for everyone.

To help spread this message, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) is launching its spring Street Smart campaign in partnership with transportation officials from across the region. The campaign shows drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians the unacceptable human cost of traffic crashes, coupled with increased enforcement of traffic laws from local law enforcement, discouraging unsafe behavior. Drivers in particular are being asked to watch out for more people walking and bicycling as the weather warms so they can avoid what could be life-changing crashes.

The Street Smart safety program, created in 2002, encourages drivers to avoid common mistakes like speeding, distracted driving, and driving after drinking alcohol. The campaign also offers safety tips to all commuters through transit ads, media outreach, digital engagement, and grassroots outreach.

The campaign will run April 21 through May 19 in partnership with law enforcement officials in the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland, and northern Virginia. Those officials will step up enforcement of traffic safety laws to discourage unsafe behavior, including ticketing drivers who disobey the speed limit or fail to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. Violations can cost up to $500 and add points to a driver’s record.

As part of the campaign, a traveling virtual reality experience lets participants encounter traffic scenarios frequently associated with crashes, injuries, and deaths of people walking and biking. The touring exhibit will be on display through May 19, and demonstrates how people can keep themselves and others on the street safe, just as warmer weather invites more people walking and biking.

The VR Challenge is part of ongoing Street Smart campaign efforts to reduce injuries and deaths of people walking and biking.

Pedestrian and cyclist fatalities in the region decreased by 17% in 2023, but sadly more action is needed to keep everyone safe on our roadways. COG's Street Smart campaign is raising awareness of roadway safety through a traveling VR exhibit. Learn more: https://t.co/8SFYnqmQmn pic.twitter.com/qy2Ry3qyLP

— COG (@MWCOG) April 24, 2024

The campaign works in conjunction with ongoing regional efforts to improve infrastructure and upgrade safety features for intersections and roadways. The Street Smart campaign offers safety tips for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists (see below). Learn more about Street Smart at BeStreetSmart.net and follow the program on X/Twitter at @COGStreetSmart.

Events

STREET SMART SAFETY TIPS

If you’re driving . . .

• Slow down and obey the speed limit.
• Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.
• Be careful when passing buses or stopped vehicles.
• When turning, yield to people walking and biking.
• Look for bicyclists before opening your door.
• Allow at least 3 feet when passing bikes.
• Put away your phone and never text while driving.
• Be especially careful if you drive an SUV or pickup truck—crashes involving high profile vehicles are more likely to cause death or serious injury for people walking and biking.

If you’re walking . . .

• Cross the street at the corner and use marked crosswalks when they’re available.
• Use the pushbuttons to request a signal change.
• Wait for the walk signal to cross the street.
• Watch for turning vehicles.
• Before crossing, look left, right, and left again.
• Try to make eye contact with drivers so that you’re sure they see you.
• Be visible. Wear something light or reflective after dark.
• Watch out for blind spots around trucks and buses.
• Avoid using your cell phone while you’re crossing the street.
• On an off-street trail, obey all posted signage and approach intersections with caution.

If you’re biking . . .

• Be predictable. Obey signs and signals.
• Never ride against traffic.
• Ride in a straight line at least 3 feet from parked cars.
• Use hand signals to tell drivers what you intend to do.
• Wear a helmet.
• Use lights at night and when visibility is poor.
• On an off-street trail, obey all posted signs and approach intersections with caution.

Laws and regulations differ between jurisdictions. Visit BeStreetSmart.net for more information.