October marks Pedestrian Safety Month, and Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) wants all road users to recognize the vulnerability of pedestrians when travelling on roadways in our province. Without the protection of the metal framing and airbags in a vehicle, pedestrians involved in a collision are far more likely than a motorist to have life-threatening or fatal injuries. Since 2019, there has been an average of 19 pedestrian fatalities on Manitoba roads each year, with 2022 being the highest at 22 deaths.

So far in 2025, there has been a total of 271 collisions with a pedestrian reported to MPI, with 227 occurring in an urban area and 44 in a rural area. Of those 271, 12 have been fatal.

“Walking on roadways in our province should never be a death sentence,” said Maria Campos, Vice President & Chief Customer and Product Officer. “MPI is dedicated to keeping all road users safe, and Pedestrian Safety Month is a great opportunity to remind all of us that we need to watch out for those who are more vulnerable on the road.”

All road users need to stay alert and focus on the road.

Drivers should:

  • Be on the lookout for people walking on the side of the road or about to cross the road.
  • Drive to conditions and be alert for rain, fog, construction zones, or unexpected hazards.
  • Slow down around crosswalks and school zones and be ready to stop quickly.
  • Wait for pedestrians to fully cross the road. Do not proceed until the person walking is safely on the sidewalk.

Pedestrians should:

  • Wear bright clothing, flashers, and reflective gear to help drivers spot you, especially at night.
  • Avoid distractions and ensure you can hear attempts by drivers to get your attention by removing headphones. Keep focused on your surroundings by not texting or talking on the phone while crossing the street or walking on the roadway with traffic.
  • Use crosswalks whenever possible.
  • Always look both ways before you cross the street.
  • Try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street so you know they have seen you.
  • When at a crosswalk, do not cross until the lights are flashing and cars have come to a complete stop. Don’t just hit the button and walk!
  • No sidewalk? Walk facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles.

The majority of incidents involving pedestrians occur over the fall and winter months, with the largest number occurring between 3:00-5:00 p.m. when people are typically headed home from work or school.

Whether walking or driving, the roadway is for everyone. Working together and focusing on the road can get everyone home safely.