UN Global Road Safety Week 2025 Shines a Spotlight on Pedestrian Safety
The 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week, held from 12 to 18 May 2025, focused on improving pedestrian safety. This year’s theme was all about making walking and cycling safer through practical efforts by key stakeholders, including governments, international agencies, businesses, schools, and civil society.
A recent global study revealed that road traffic injuries remain one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, with 1.2 million people dying and another 50 million injured every year.
Disturbingly, the leading cause of death among young people aged 5 to 29 is now road crashes involving pedestrians and cyclists. According to the United Nations, over 1 in 4 road deaths globally involve people walking or cycling.
“In recent years, we’ve seen a push for walking and cycling as eco-friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective alternatives to driving. But while promoting these modes of transport, we also need to create safer environments for people using them,” said Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive.
Herbert emphasized that while governments must play a role, drivers also carry a major responsibility in protecting vulnerable road users. “Every driver should be aware of all road users—whether they are in a vehicle or not,” he said.
Tips for Drivers to Help Keep Pedestrians Safe :
● Make eye contact with pedestrians whenever possible. Don’t assume they know your next move.
● Be extra cautious in high-foot-traffic areas, like city centres and residential zones.
● Check your blind spots for pedestrians, especially when turning or changing lanes.
● Pedestrians always have the right of way. Even if they make a mistake, it’s up to drivers to avoid a collision.
● At night, stay alert for movement at the edge of the road or people crossing unexpectedly.
● If a pedestrian appears intoxicated, increase your distance and be ready to react if they stumble into the road.
● Slow down near schools and areas with children. Kids can behave unpredictably and may not understand road safety.
● Keep your headlights on, even during the day, to make your vehicle more visible to pedestrians.