TxDOT Urges Drivers to Watch for Pedestrians After Dark

TxDOT Reminds Drivers and Pedestrians to Stay Alert as Evenings Get Darker

October and November are the most dangerous months for pedestrian crashes in Texas. With Halloween behind us and daylight saving time ending, TxDOT is urging everyone to take extra precautions.

As the days get shorter and more people find themselves traveling after dark, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is reminding drivers and pedestrians to look out for one another.

October and November are historically the most dangerous months for pedestrians on Texas roads.

In 2025, 694 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes across Texas, with nearly 20% of those deaths occurring during October and November. An alarming 68% of pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries happened after dark.

While pedestrian fatalities statewide declined 10% from 2024 to 2025, pedestrians still accounted for 18% of all traffic deaths.

Local Numbers Tell an Important Story

The numbers are concerning here in the Ark-La-Tex as well. TxDOT's Atlanta District, which includes Bowie, Cass and seven other Northeast Texas counties, recorded 49 crashes involving pedestrians in 2025. Those crashes resulted in nine deaths and 16 serious injuries.

TxDOT is encouraging everyone to take responsibility for keeping roads safe, whether they're behind the wheel or walking alongside traffic.

Simple Steps Can Help Prevent Tragedy

Drivers are encouraged to:

• Watch for pedestrians at all times, especially after dark.
• Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks and yield when turning.
• Put away cellphones and avoid distractions.
• Be cautious around stopped vehicles that may block the view of someone walking.
• Observe speed limits and be especially careful in neighborhoods and areas with pedestrian traffic.

Pedestrians can help protect themselves by:

• Crossing at intersections and marked crosswalks.
• Making eye contact with drivers before crossing.
• Following traffic signals and looking both ways.
• Putting away phones and earbuds, and especially over-the-ear headphones!
• Wearing reflective clothing or carrying a flashlight after dark.

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TxDOT's message is simple:

A little extra attention can save a life. Whether driving or walking, everyone has a part to play in making Texas roads safer.

Learn more about the state's safety initiative at Drive Like a Texan.

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