This week, the Madison Police Department is partnering with Safe Communities Madison-Dane County in promoting the annual Slow Down yard sign campaign. The faster a vehicle is travelling, it is more likely that a crash will occur and injuries will be more severe. Children are especially vulnerable due to injuries because of their smaller stature. Below are just a few national facts from Safe Kids Worldwide on why we should slow down while driving:
- In 2012, approximately 19,183 child pedestrians were non-fatally injured in motor vehicle-related incidents
- In 2013, 78% (348) of child pedestrian deaths occurred at non-intersection locations
- The maturity level of children under 10 years of age makes them less able to correctly gauge road dangers and puts them at greater risk for injury and death
- Children are especially vulnerable when struck by heavier vehicles (such as SUVs and vans), which are associated with higher rates of severe injury and fatality than passenger cars
If a child pedestrian is hit by a car traveling at 20 mph, 5% are killed, most injuries are minor and 30% suffer no injuries at all. 5 miles per hour, (30), 45% are KILLED and many more are injured. At 40 mph, 85% ARE KILLED.
With school almost finished and summer fast approaching, there will be more children walking and riding their bikes in our city. Please be mindful, slow down and watch for kids!
Sgt R. Rahaman
MPD Traffic Enforcement Safety Team
