10 Safest States for Pedestrians
By Space Coast Daily // May 1, 2022
While no state is immune to pedestrian accidents, some states are safer than others. So, which states are the safest for pedestrians? To find out, take a look at this data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on the 10 Safest States for Pedestrians (2022 Study). Based on the data, these are the ten safest states for pedestrians.
1. Massachusetts
The state has invested in pedestrian safety initiatives like the “Walk Safe Boston” campaign, encouraging pedestrians and drivers to be more aware of each other. The state also has a “Complete Streets” policy which requires that all transportation planners and engineers consider the needs of all users, including pedestrians, when designing road projects.
2. Vermont
Vermont has had a pedestrian safety action plan in place since 2016. The state also implemented a “vulnerable user’s law” in 2017, which increased penalties for drivers who injure or kill pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.
3. Rhode Island
If you live in Rhode Island, you are probably not too surprised to see it on this list. The state has been working hard to make its roads safer for everyone, including pedestrians. Rhode Island has zero-tolerance for distracted driving and has implemented a “vulnerable users law” similar to Vermont’s.
4. New Hampshire
The granite state is known for its scenic roads, and it is also known for being pretty safe for pedestrians. New Hampshire has a “hands-free law,” which prohibits using handheld electronic devices when driving.
5. Minnesota
Pedestrians in Minnesota have a lot to be thankful for. The state has invested in pedestrian safety initiatives like “Walk! Minneapolis” and “Toward Zero Deaths,” a statewide commitment to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries to zero. The state also has a “hands-free law” similar to New Hampshire.
6. Washington
The evergreen state is another safe place for pedestrians. Washington has invested in pedestrian safety initiatives to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2030.
7. Hawaii
The aloha state is one of the safest places for pedestrians, thanks to motorists who must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and a “vulnerable users law” that imposes harsher penalties on drivers who injure or kill pedestrians.
8. Delaware
Residents in Delaware are lucky to have policies in place which require transportation planners and engineers to consider the needs of all users, including pedestrians, when designing road projects.
9. Connecticut
It is no surprise that Connecticut State made a list. Residents in Connecticut benefit from the state’s “Complete Streets” policy and a “vulnerable users law” that imposes harsher penalties on drivers who injure or kill pedestrians.
10. Oregon
The beaver state is the last but not the least safe place for pedestrians. Oregon has also invested in pedestrian safety initiatives like the “Vision Zero”. If you live in one of these states, you can rest a little easier knowing that your state is safer for pedestrians than most. But, no matter where you live, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when walking near traffic.
