LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A new initiative from the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office aims to enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety on Arkansas roadways.
Officials announced the launch of a new campaign called “Extreme Safety," which will run from Sept. 3 through Sept. 16. The campaign will highlight the importance of avoiding distractions, following speed limits and being cautious near crosswalks for drivers.
Cyclists should always wear helmets, check their brakes and follow the rules of the road, while pedestrians should use sidewalks, cross at designated areas and stay alert and aware.
"Our goal is simple yet crucial—encourage motorists across the state to help protect the lives of pedestrians and cyclists who are often at a higher risk on our roads,” Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar said. “By following safety guidelines and staying alert, together we can prevent unnecessary tragedies and ensure Arkansas roadways are safe for all.”
In 2020, pedestrian fatalities in Arkansas reached a 10-year high with 82 tragic deaths. Statistics from 2021 revealed that fatalities among Black pedestrians were more than twice as high as those among white or Hispanic pedestrians.
Arkansas State Police Capt. Brad Lann said this new campaign is also a two-way street, as it applies to those who do not travel by vehicle.
"We were having a lot of pedestrians get hit out on the interstate because they thought it was okay to walk out there on the interstate," Lann said. "When that traffic is going... there's not enough time for a driver to react when somebody tries to cross."
Another thing Lann said drivers should do is to limit their distractions on the road.
"Stay off your phone as much as you can, especially don't text and drive," Lann said. "Just try to limit the radio distraction."
In addition to the "Extreme Safety" initiative, officials will run a second related campaign, "Fourth Wall," from Oct. 7 through Oct. 9 in honor of National Pedestrian Safety Month. This campaign will focus on road safety and shared responsibility among all road users.
For more information, please visit click here or call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136.