A campaign to reduce speeding has been launched In Colorado after figures showed an increase in pedestrian and cyclist deaths.
Since 2016, pedestrian and cyclist deaths have increased 34 per cent in Colorado while passenger vehicle occupant deaths have increased less than three per cent.
According to CDOT, speeding was a factor in 237 fatalities last year, and 1,274 people have died on Colorado roads in speeding-related crashes over the last five years.
To raise awareness of the dangers speeding poses to pedestrians and cyclists, CDOT has launched the new campaign alongside advocates, victims and Colorado law enforcement. The campaign aims to spark a conversation about traffic safety and encourage drivers to slow down.
Through a series of infographics, posters and yard signs that are being distributed throughout the state, the new campaign highlights the alarming statistic: As speed increases, so does a pedestrian’s risk of serious injury or death. The average risk of death for a pedestrian reaches 25 per cent at 32 mph and triples to 75 per cent at 50 mph, research shows.
“Speeding drivers put everyone on Colorado roads at risk, especially vulnerable road users like pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists,” said CDOT’s Executive Director Shoshana Lew.
“A common misconception is that speeding mainly occurs on highways, but the truth is, it happens on all roads. So, whether you’re on a highway, city street or rural mountain road, slow down and always watch for pedestrians. You could save a life.”
