Pedestrians are vulnerable road users. In many countries, collisions with pedestrians are a leading cause of death and injury. In some countries, over half of all road deaths are caused by collisions between vehicles and pedestrians.

Pedestrians are struck by vehicles in a number of situations, including while:

• Trying to cross the road.
• Walking along the roadside, or on the road.
• Playing or working on the road.
• On driveways or footpaths.
• While boarding or leaving public transport vehicles.

Pedestrians can also be struck by bicycles.

The severity of pedestrian crashes is strongly dependent on the speed of traffic. Research shows that the chances of a pedestrian surviving an impact with a motorised vehicle reduces dramatically above 30 km/h, and even at lower speeds than this, serious harm can be caused, especially to elderly or child pedestrians.

Typical factors which may add to pedestrian crash risk include:

• Inappropriate speeds.
• Lack of footpaths and pedestrian crossings
• Lack of pedestrian crossing opportunities (gaps in passing traffic).
• Number of lanes to cross (risk is added with each lane).
• Complexity and unpredictability of traffic movements at intersections.
• Inadequate separation of footpaths from traffic.
• Poor street lighting.
• Lack of sight distance.
• Driver/rider fatigue.
• Alcohol/drugs/medication
• Distraction, including inattention due to mobile phone use.
• Lack of vehicle safety devices.
• Poor condition of vehicle tyres, lights, and brakes.