VIRGINIA, USA — Over the last two weeks, Virginia State Police (VSP) has recorded nearly a dozen deadly crashes involving pedestrians across the state.
In a release on Monday, VSP said the ten fatal crashes since Feb. 11 happened in Virginia Beach, Henrico, Chesterfield, Albermarle, Fairfax, Pittsylvania, Loudoun, Wythe and two in Prince William.
Since the start of the new year, there have been a total of 19 pedestrian deaths reported across the Commonwealth.
"Obviously if you see something report something," according to a VSP spokesperson. "Try to get first responders to the scene as soon as possible, make sure you provide whatever investigating department the information. You know in a number of these cases we haven't seen a lot of hit and runs."
This influx has prompted Virginia law enforcement and highway safety officials to urge both pedestrians and drivers to be more aware. Officials are recommending pedestrians do the following to increase their safety:
- Be predictable, follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
- Plan a route with safe crossings.
- Avoid distractions, alcohol and drugs; and be alert.
- Dress to be seen, but never assume drivers see you.
- Wear reflective clothing and carry a blinking light or flashlight at night.
- Walk on sidewalks facing traffic.
- If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
- Watch for cars backing up, especially in parking lots and driveways.
- Cross at crosswalks or intersections – where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right, and make eye contact with turning drivers before proceeding.
- If there is no crosswalk or intersection, go to a well-lit area with the best view of traffic, wait until there is enough time to cross safely, and continue to watch for traffic while crossing.
VSP noted that 118 pedestrians died in crashes on Virginia roadways in 2023.