Louisiana: Deadly For Pedestrians

Louisiana is known as “The Sportsman’s Paradise" state for its hunting and fishing areas and also if you want to do some alligator hunting. If you are really a “tough guy” you can try a little alligator wrestling. Just kidding. But seriously, Louisiana will soon be known as it is already recognized or ranked as the second most dangerous state for pedestrians. That is a designation that the state could well do without. According to reports, Louisiana was ranked #2 most dangerous state for pedestrians, according to a bumper.com recent review by the National Highway Safety Administration’s Facility Analysis reporting system. The report also said that pedestrian deaths are up 13% nationwide. One area of particular interest in northeast Louisiana is Ouachita Parish along Highway 165 from just outside of the town of Richwood and Monroe. Over the years, there have been numerous deaths involving pedestrians along that stretch of Highway 165, with calls coming from residents and community leaders for the state to take action to reduce the number of fatalities. There is now a lighting project slated to begin next year to install lights on Hwy 165 within Richwood, which many residents and leaders have said is long overdue.

As this article is being written, a pedestrian was struck by a train in West Monroe located in West Ouachita Parish, which lets us know that pedestrians are not just killed by automobiles. The incident happened on October 26, 2023 as authorities are investigating the incident. Pedestrians are encouraged to be aware of all crossings, whether they are highways, streets, or even railroad tracks, as it only “takes” a second for a tragedy to strike. People are urged to be aware of daylight saving time coming to an end as it will be getting darker even sooner. Visibility is severely restricted during nighttime hours, and it can be difficult to ascertain an accurate distance of how vehicles may be away, especially for pedestrians. Law enforcement officials urge pedestrians to wear light/bright colors. If one must cross a street or highway that individual is urged to use the crosswalk at an intersection. Perhaps the most important thing is to be attentive to your surroundings. Do not be distracted by using a cell phone when walking along or about to cross a street or highway. As in driving, look both ways before proceeding and be prepared to stop suddenly if need be. Look out for the next guy because he may not see you until it’s too late. Louisiana has been ranked at the bottom for too long on things that make the state look bad. Being ranked as the number two state for pedestrians killed is a ranking that we all can live without.