DELAWARE - A new study finds Delaware is quite dangerous for pedestrians. In fact, the First State ranks as the third most dangerous state when it comes to pedestrian deaths.
Researchers say 29 pedestrians were killed in Delaware last year. Five of those deaths were in Kent county and four in Sussex.
"I'm walking and then I'm picking up my bicycle which is at the bike shop and then I'm riding back," said Bob Paulen, a Dewey resident who says he feels safe walking around town.
Surprised to hear that one study found Delaware third most dangerous state for pedestrians but agrees more can be done.
"I think we can do better," said Paulen.
The study analyzed by an organization called Car Insurance Comparison, found that Delaware has a pedestrian death rate of 3.29 fatalities per 100,000 residents.
"What's happening at intersections, the length of blocks, the width of roads, these are things that are contributing to pedestrian deaths, in addition to, pedestrians talking on the phone, as well as drivers talking on the phone being distracted while driving," explained Laura Adams, the Senior Analyst, with Car Insurance Comparison.
As a result of these numbers, the Delaware Office Of Highway Safety hopes to make a change, with its 'Walk Smart Arrive Alive' campaign.
"We really want to encourage pedestrians to wear reflective items, to carry a flash light, if they don't have a flash light on them they can use the light feature on their cellphone and then you know walk where drivers may expect to see you," said Kimberly Chesser the Director for the Delaware Office Of Highway Safety.
One of the biggest recommendations to avoid pedestrian accidents is to use crosswalks when available and walk only when its your turn.
Sergeant Dempsey says during the summer season is when pedestrian safety is usually a concern.
"On a busy summer weekend we have 25-30 thousand people come to town, it does pose a bigger problem," said Sgt. Dempsey.
Working together to take safety a step forward.
"We have been working with the state of Delaware, DELDOT, the town and we did get our speed limit reduced to 25 miles an hour from 30 and we also worked with DELDOT to improve our pedestrian crossings and we installed numerous pedestrian crossings throughout the town," added Dempsey.
Initiatives locals are grateful for.
"I'm pleased with the progress they've made," said Paulen.Â
Ohs's campaign kicks off Sunday where they will provide Delawareans education and tips on how to keep safe.