(Lawrenceville, Georgia, November 25, 2014)  The Gwinnett County Police Department has seen an increase in the number of pedestrian fatalities in Gwinnett over the past few years.  Almost all of these accidents occurred just after dark, between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.  Most of these incidents occurred in West Precinct, in the areas of Jimmy Carter Blvd., Singleton Rd., and South Norcross Tucker Rd.  The majority of the pedestrians killed were adult males, and all but one were on foot.

Pedestrian Fatalities by Year

2012 - 5
2013 - 7
2014 YTD - 11

If events continue to occur at the current rate, GCPD could see 14 pedestrian fatalities by the end of 2014.  To this date in 2014, eight (8) of the fatalities were adult males, two (2) were adult females, and one (1) was a child.  Only one (1) of the fatalities took place in a crosswalk.  Ten (10) of the eleven (11) pedestrians killed in 2014 were at fault in the accident.

The best way to reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities is through public awareness.  The vast majority of these fatalities could have been avoided had the pedestrians used nearby crosswalks and obeyed pedestrian traffic control signals.  GCPD has increased enforcement action regarding pedestrian laws, and will conduct special enforcement operations in the coming weeks.

Please follow these tips to help remain safe:

-        Cross only in a crosswalk whenever possible.

-        Always obey pedestrian traffic control devices and signals.

-        Don’t assume a driver can see you, just because you can see the vehicle.  This is especially important at night.

-        Whenever possible, make eye contact with approaching drivers to ensure they see you, before crossing a road.

-        When riding a bicycle or running on a road, wear bright, reflective clothing.

-        Stay off the roads after consuming alcohol, both in your vehicle and on foot.

-        Review Georgia Law (O.C.G.A. 40-6-90 through 40-6-99) regarding pedestrians and pedestrian right of way.  Remember that pedestrians lose versus vehicles, regardless of who has the right of way, and put safety first.