National Roadside Traffic Safety Awareness Month

July is the time of year when organizations such as the Pedestrian Safety Institute work to raise awareness about the importance of roadside safety for both drivers and pedestrians. This is especially crucial during the “vacation months” from July to October, which statistically experience a higher number of traffic-related incidents and fatalities.

What Is Highlighted?

• Reduce fatalities and injuries: The overarching goal is to decrease the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths that occur on roads and highways
• Raise awareness: July through October are statistically the deadliest months for traffic fatalities due to increased travel and holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day). The month specifically aims to address these heightened risks.
• Emphasize pedestrian safety: Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable, especially at night. A significant focus is placed on tips for pedestrians to stay visible and alert.

For Drivers

• Stay visible: Use headlights, keep your signal lights clean, and consider adding reflective materials to your bike.
  Maintain your vehicle: Regularly check the brakes, tires, lights, and engine to prevent breakdowns.
• Follow traffic laws: Adhere to speed limits, stop signs, and other regulations.
• Avoid distractions: Put away your cell phone, refrain from eating and drinking, and focus solely on driving.
• Be prepared for emergencies: Carry a roadside safety kit (including first aid supplies, a flashlight, flares or reflective triangles, jumper cables, and water) and know how to safely handle a breakdown (move to the shoulder, turn on hazard lights, and stay inside if possible).

Beyond Pedestrians and Breakdowns

Pedestrian safety and responding to roadside emergencies are essential, but this month also highlights the importance of overall road safety. This includes issues like distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, seat belt usage, aggressive driving, and sharing the road with construction workers.

Key Players and Their Contributions

Pedestrian Safety Institute (PSI): As the creator of this awareness month, PSI plays a key role in driving initiatives aimed at improving pedestrian safety. The organization often collaborates with other groups to share important safety messages.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): This essential government agency conducts various national campaigns throughout the year, with a particular focus in July. NHTSA provides data, resources, and public service announcements (PSAs) on topics such as impaired driving, distracted driving, and speeding. Additionally, they collaborate with law enforcement to increase visibility and enforce regulations during peak periods.

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If you’re looking for durable traffic control solutions that can withstand various weather conditions, check out the extensive range of products at Transline Industries. Our selection includes speed limit signs, preformed thermoplastic road markings, cones, heavy-duty barriers, delineators, barricades, sandbags, flags, and arrow boards.

Call us today or visit one of our store locations to learn more about our versatile traffic control solutions or to place an order.