Under the US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) current draft regulations, states won’t be required to distinguish between different roadway users (“motorized” and “non-motorized” users in agency language). That makes for a one-size-fits-all approach, with no room for targeted strategies to improve safety for pedestrians.

Non-motorized fatalities represent 14 – 16 % of national traffic deaths — up from 12 % just a few years ago — an alarming trend hidden in the overall decrease of traffic fatalities.

Until June 9, 2014 USDOT is accepting comments on its current draft of these rules. Tell USDOT to get serious about pedestrian safety; remind Secretary Foxx that not everyone gets lucky like he did (see his quote above).

Smart Growth America has drafted a letter that addresses pedestrians and the need for state accountability on safety – ! 

You can also read our comment letter on USDOT Performance Measures here, or write about the issue in your own words and send a letter to:

Secretary Foxx
U.S. Department of Transportation
Docket Operations
M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590