03-04-2025
MPD talks safety amid series of deadly vehicle/pedestrian crashes
MIDLAND Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- Over the past month there have been several pedestrian incidents in Midland and some have turned deadly. Now, the Midland Police Department is hoping to help drivers and pedestrians stay safer on the roads.
'We have had several in the recent days, lot of it has to do with pedestrians not paying attention to the road,' Lieutenant of traffic division for MPD Pete Dehlinger said. 'Not obeying the rules of the road and just thinking they have the right away when they really don't.'
Dehlinger said people walking along the road will always be vulnerable because they don't have any protection compared to a car, which has safety features such as seatbelts, airbags, and bumpers.
'When it comes to a pedestrian and a car, a car will always win every time,' Dehlinger said. 'So, pedestrians need to be aware of their surroundings, be defensive, and assume that the other vehicles don't see them.'
Some tips for both drivers and pedestrian from TxDOT's Pedestrian Safety Campaign to keep everyone safe and limit the incidents are:
For Pedestrians:
Cross the street only at intersections or crosswalks. Look left, right, then left again before crossing.
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Don't assume traffic will stop for you.
Follow all traffic and crosswalk signals.
Stick to sidewalks. If there isn't one, walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic, unless it's obstructed or unsafe.
When walking, put away electronic devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.
Stay visible. Wear reflective materials and use a flashlight at night.
For Drivers:
Stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks.
When turning, yield the right of way to pedestrians.
Be cautious when passing stopped buses or other vehicles that can block your view of pedestrians.
Pay attention and put your phone away, so you're prepared if pedestrians enter your path.
Follow the posted speed limit and adjust to conditions.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
