AAA warns of increased pedestrian risks on National Walking Day

CHARLOTTE, NC (WWAY) — As more people head outside for National Walking Day, AAA is warning about an increased risk of pedestrian crashes as foot traffic rises this spring.

National Walking Day is observed April 1, and AAA says warmer weather, seasonal events and higher gas prices are expected to put more pedestrians on roads and sidewalks.

“Pedestrians face the greatest risk in traffic because they have no protection in a crash,” said Tiffany Wright, spokesperson for AAA, The Auto Club Group. “Even low-speed collisions can result in serious or fatal injuries.”

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian deaths continue to outpace overall traffic fatalities. In 2024, 7,148 pedestrians were killed in crashes nationwide.

The data shows one in four of those deaths involved hit-and-run crashes, more than three-quarters occurred after dark and nearly two-thirds happened in areas without sidewalks.

AAA is urging both pedestrians and drivers to take precautions as activity increases.

For pedestrians, safety tips include using sidewalks and crosswalks, making eye contact with drivers before crossing, avoiding distractions such as phones and headphones and wearing bright or reflective clothing at night.

Drivers are encouraged to slow down in areas with heavy foot traffic, watch for pedestrians near schools, parks and events, eliminate distractions, yield at crosswalks and use extra caution at night.