TxDOT’s “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign urges drivers to slow down, stay alert, and yield to pedestrians
October in Texas is supposed to be about crisp air, football games, and pumpkin spice everything. But there’s a darker side to the month; it’s the deadliest time of year for pedestrians.
Last October, 89 people were killed in pedestrian accidents while walking on Texas roads. Another 143 were seriously injured. The problem is getting worse; pedestrian crashes have jumped 25% since 2020.
That’s why the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is rolling out a new statewide campaign, "Be Safe. Drive Smart.", to try and change that. The message to drivers and pedestrians is that both have a role in keeping each other safe. But with shorter days and reduced visibility, the stakes are higher than ever.
Why is October so dangerous for pedestrians?
It’s no coincidence that pedestrian deaths spike in October. As the days get shorter, more people are out walking in the dark, whether it’s kids trick-or-treating, joggers enjoying cooler temperatures, or commuters heading to work before sunrise.
Meanwhile, drivers struggle with reduced visibility, glare from setting suns, and the distractions that come with busy fall schedules.
"This time of year, Texans may be more inclined to get outside to enjoy the cooler weather, but fewer daylight hours can create darker, riskier conditions," said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams.
The numbers don’t lie. In 2024 alone, 773 pedestrians died on Texas roads. Most of those pedestrian crashes happened at night, when it’s harder for drivers to see people crossing the street. With more SUVs and trucks on the road, the risk only grows due to more blind spots.
What can we learn from Brenna Cole-Pickrel’s story?
Behind every statistic is a real person. For TxDOT, the face of this campaign is U.S. Air Force Major Brenna Cole-Pickrel, a 31-year-old security expert stationed at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland.
Brenna was out for an afternoon jog with her dog, Daisy, when she was hit by a driver in a crosswalk. She died from her injuries on October 2, 2024, leaving behind her fiancé, her family, and a community in shock.
"Brenna had a brilliant mind, a warm heart, and an unwavering commitment to helping others," her mother, Linda Cole, said. "She served her country proudly, and we mourn her loss every day. It hurts to know that it could have been prevented."
Her story isn’t just a tragedy; it’s a wake-up call. TxDOT is sharing it as part of the "Be Safe. Drive Smart." campaign to remind drivers that pedestrians aren’t just obstacles; they’re someone’s family, friends, and neighbors.
What is TxDOT doing to keep pedestrians safe?
The campaign isn’t just about awareness; it’s about action. Throughout October, TxDOT will blanket the state with safety messages through TV, radio, billboards, and even "walking billboards" (real people holding signs in high-traffic areas).
It’s all part of TxDOT’s larger "Drive Like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe." initiative, which aims to reduce traffic deaths through education and community engagement. But ads alone won’t fix the problem. That’s why TxDOT is also sharing practical safety tips for both drivers and pedestrians.
What can drivers do to prevent pedestrian crashes?
If you’re behind the wheel, your actions could mean the difference between life and death for someone crossing the street. Here’s how to drive smarter this month (and every month):
- Stay alert: Pedestrians can appear anywhere, at any time, especially in residential areas, near schools, and in downtown districts. Scan the sides of the road, not just what’s ahead.
- Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks: It’s not just polite; it’s the law. Don’t just slow down; come to a complete stop.
- Yield when turning: If someone is crossing the street, even if they don’t have the right of way, let them go. A few extra seconds aren’t worth a life.
- Put the phone down: Distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian crashes. If you’re looking at your screen, you won’t see someone stepping into the road.
- Watch for stopped cars: If a vehicle ahead of you is stopped, don’t zip around it; there might be a pedestrian you can’t see.
- Slow down: Speed limits exist for a reason. In neighborhoods and school zones, go even slower than the posted speed.
- Be extra careful in big vehicles: If you drive an SUV or truck, your blind spots are bigger than you think. A small child or someone in dark clothing might be right in front of you without you realizing it.
Hit by a car and injured? Let The Herrera Law Firm handle your pedestrian accident claim
If you’ve been hit by a car while walking in San Antonio, you’re probably dealing with physical pain, medical bills, lost wages, and an insurance company that’s already looking for ways to pay you less than you deserve. The Herrera Law Firm can deal with the insurance companies, so you don’t have to.
We’ve helped countless pedestrian accident victims in San Antonio and across Texas get the compensation they need to recover. Our team knows the tactics insurance companies use, and we’re not afraid to fight back.
When you call us for a free consultation, we’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and give you an honest assessment of your case. We’ll explain your rights, outline the legal process, and discuss the best path forward. Since we work on a contingency fee basis, you won’t owe us a single penny unless we win your case. That means you get top-tier legal representation without the financial stress.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case, gathering evidence, and demanding the justice you deserve. You didn’t ask to be injured, but you do deserve a law firm that will fight tirelessly for your rights.
