Everyone knows that you should not drive impaired, but what many people may not know is that excessive drinking can have the same deadly consequences for pedestrians. Almost one-third of all pedestrians who die in traffic-related crashes are intoxicated, and alcohol involvement either for the driver or for the pedestrian is reported in nearly one-half of all pedestrian fatalities. The majority of these crashes involve males and occur at night, especially on weekends. As compared to sober pedestrians, alcohol-impaired pedestrians frequently cross the roadway from unexpected locations. Here is lifesaving information for motorists and pedestrians.

If You Are a Motorist

• Do not drive impaired. It slows your reaction time, impairs your judgment, and affects your alertness and coordination.

• When you drive, particularly at night around populated areas, watch for sudden, unexpected movements by pedestrians. Scan the road widely and often, and prepare for the unexpected. Slow down!

• If you know someone who has been drinking and is planning to walk, call them a cab or offer to drive or escort them, even if it is only a short distance.

If You Are a Pedestrian

• Remember that alcohol affects your balance, impairs your judgment, and reduces your alertness and coordination. It can also affect your vision.

• Limit how much alcohol you consume, especially if you plan to walk. Do not fool yourself about your ability to walk in traffic safely.

• Be more visible to traffic by carrying a flashlight or wearing retro-reflective clothing at night. During the day, wearing fluorescent colors is best. Wearing white, especially at night, is not enough.

• If you know someone who has been drinking and is planning to walk, offer to call them a cab or escort them, even if it is only for a short distance.