DMV urges drivers to slow down and look up for pedestrian safety [Video]

RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) – The Department of Motor Vehicles says there have already been more than 450 crashes involving pedestrians in Virginia this year. Tragically, 35 people were killed.

“We cannot ignore these numbers,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “But more importantly, we have to start thinking of the numbers we share as what they really are – human lives. Every single one of the 477 pedestrians injured or killed so far this year in Virginia are someone’s child, parent, spouse, best friend and whole world. We need to value and protect each other on the roadways. That means slowing down and keeping our eyes on the road. Every second counts when it comes to keeping our friends and family safe inside and outside of our cars.” 

The DMV is urging drivers to prioritize pedestrian safety.

The speed at which the vehicle is traveling is a major factor in the pedestrian’s chance of survival.

This graphic …