Why October is Texas’ deadliest month for pedestrians

As the days get shorter beginning this month, the Texas Department of Transportation is warning the change could mean more risk for pedestrians.
October was the deadliest month for pedestrians in Texas last year, with 80 dying in vehicular crashes. The shift to more darkness earlier in the evening means pedestrians are harder to spot, and motorists and those walking or biking should take extra precautions.
“If you’re sitting in an intersection just be well aware of your surroundings, is what we like to tell folks, of anyone who might be on foot or on a bicycle,” TxDOT spokesperson Alice Shaw said.
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Pedestrian fatalities increased 22% in Texas over the last five years. Pedestrian injuries in Dallas crashes last year were the highest since 2019. Only about 2% of Dallasites walk to work, but pedestrians account for 30% of traffic deaths.
TxDOT is reminding drivers to watch for people walking with a statewide campaign during October, which is National Pedestrian Safety Month.
A new state law requires drivers to stop and yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks, and those in violation could face fines and a Class C misdemeanor charge, Shaw said.
Safety tips for drivers and pedestrians include: