Colorado Will Mark National Pedestrian Safety Month
State officials will urge drivers and walkers to exercise extra caution as daylight hours decrease this October.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Car Types
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Beginning October 1, the Colorado Department of Transportation will observe National Pedestrian Safety Month to address risks during shorter autumn days. Agencies are emphasizing road safety as nearly 60% of pedestrian deaths in the state occur between September and February.
Why it matters
The annual transition to lower-light conditions during the fall and winter significantly impacts road visibility. Officials aim to reduce fatalities by promoting consistent use of crosswalks and strict adherence to speed limits.
Colorado recorded 131 pedestrian fatalities in 2025, compared to 64 in 2015. October of 2025 saw 14 pedestrian deaths, a decrease from the 17 recorded in October 2024.
The players
Colorado Department of Transportation
This agency maintains 23,000 lane miles, 3,400 bridges, and 35 mountain passes across the state.
Colorado State Patrol
This law enforcement agency works alongside transportation officials to improve road safety and enforce traffic laws.
The details
Safety advocates are hosting demonstrations at sunset to illustrate the visibility challenges drivers face as daylight fades. Denver alone loses roughly 70 minutes of daylight throughout September, prompting state agencies to ramp up public outreach campaigns.
Timeline
2015 saw 64 pedestrian fatalities in Colorado.
2024-10 recorded 17 pedestrian fatalities.
2025 saw a total of 131 pedestrian fatalities.
2025-10 recorded 14 pedestrian fatalities.
2026-10-01 marks the beginning of National Pedestrian Safety Month.
Roadmap
The designation of National Pedestrian Safety Month aligns with a broader industry shift toward prioritizing vulnerable road user safety amid increasing traffic density. This initiative bridges the gap between traditional highway infrastructure maintenance and modern efforts to reduce urban pedestrian fatalities.
Commuters should prepare for reduced visibility during evening drives by increasing following distances and scanning for pedestrians in crosswalks. Drivers are encouraged to stay alert for potential policy shifts or increased patrols related to traffic safety throughout October.
The takeaway
Drivers should proactively adjust their speed and alertness as daylight fades during the autumn months. Using designated crosswalks remains the most effective way for pedestrians to stay visible in low-light conditions.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's approach at Colorado Car Types.
More information
For detailed information, visit the bicycle and pedestrian safety programs portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Steamboat Radio.
Live Poll
Do you feel road users in your area prioritize safety during darker evening rush hours?
