On average, there have been 665 collisions involving pedestrians. In 2008, pedestrians accounted for 38% of the traffic fatalities in the District of Columbia, which showed a significant increase from 2002 where pedestrians accounted for 18% of the fatalities in the District of Columbia.
| Year | Collisions Involving Pedestrian Fatalities | Total Collisions |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 19 | 52 |
| 2001 | 14 | 73 |
| 2002 | 9 | 50 |
| 2003 | 21 | 70 |
| 2004 | 10 | 45 |
| 2005 | 16 | 49 |
| 2006 | 17 | 41 |
| 2007 | 25 | 54 |
| 2008 | 14 | 39 |
| 2009 | 16 | 33 |
The Metropolitan Police Department has placed pedestrian enforcement efforts in areas identified as particularly dangerous, according to crash data provided by the DC Department of Transport (DDOT). During every pedestrian safety wave, emphasis is placed on education ad safety tips to help community members gain awareness of efforts that may be taken to reduce pedestrian collisions and fatalities.
The Council of the District of Columbia enacted the Pedestrian Safety Amendment of 2005 on March 16, 2005. The law has increased the civil infractions and fines for pedestrians who violate safety measures. Fines range from $10 to $50.
Helpful Links
- Share the Road: Tips for Drivers, Cyclists and Pedestrians
- Pedestrian Safety is a Two-Way Street [PDF]
Behaviors motorists and walkers should avoid and fines for associated violations.