As we head into the final stretch of summer—and the last month of the “100 Deadliest Days” of 2025—it’s more important than ever for everyone to stay alert and watch for pedestrians on our roadways and in our neighborhoods.

With schools across the Grand Valley beginning the new year, we can expect to see more children, families, and students traveling by foot. That means safety awareness is absolutely vital.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 7,314 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic crashes in 2023, and more than 68,000 others were injured across the country.

The safety of our community depends on each of us doing our part to promote safe driving and walking behaviors. To help keep our children and school zones safe, the Grand Junction Police Department will be increasing patrols around schools as the academic year begins.

If you’re a driver:

• Watch for pedestrians at all times, in all directions.
• Minimize blind spots and be aware when backing up.
• Slow down and be ready to stop when turning or approaching crosswalks.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk—a pedestrian you can’t see may be crossing.
• Never drive impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Obey posted speed limits and be aware of reduced speeds in school zones and construction zones. 
• Stay alert when driving through neighborhoods, parking lots, and near bus stops.
• Stop your car when the lights on a school bus are flashing and the stop sign is extended. 

If you’re a pedestrian:

• Follow traffic rules and obey signals and signs.
• Use sidewalks whenever available. If not, walk facing traffic and stay as far from vehicles as possible.
• Cross at marked crosswalks or intersections. If one isn’t available, choose a well-lit spot with a clear view of traffic.
• Look in all directions before crossing, especially for cars turning left or right.
• Stay alert in parking lots and near driveways.
• Parents—supervise young children and help them build good safety habits.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs while walking, as they can affect your judgment and coordination.

Throughout the summer, public safety partners from the Grand Junction Police Department, Colorado State Patrol, Grand Junction Fire Department, City of Grand Junction, Colorado Department of Transportation, Colorado Mesa University, Mesa County School District 51, and the Bureau of Land Management have teamed up to bring you Summer Safety Education Tips.

Together, let’s all do our part. Stay alert. Stay visible. Stay safe.