Pedestrian vulnerability and safety risks highlighted globally

Pedestrians remain among the most vulnerable road users due to a lack of physical protection such as seatbelts or vehicle frames during collisions. In Atlantic Canada, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, legal frameworks allow injured pedestrians to seek compensation for physical injuries, emotional suffering, lost income, and medical expenses through claims against responsible drivers or vehicle owners.

In Kenya, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has emphasized pedestrian safety through its Usalama Barabarani campaign. Key risks identified include limited walking space, lack of pavements, and insufficient lighting. Safety initiatives urge both pedestrians and motorists to adopt responsible behaviors, such as using designated crossings and slowing down near schools and markets, to reduce the frequency of life-altering accidents.