The Department of Public Works, Office of Highway Safety, together with the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is urging drivers to slow down and stay alert for pedestrians. 

"In Guam, we want to help ensure that our pedestrians are safe on the sidewalks, crossing the street anywhere that people walk they should be able to do so without fear or stress. We urge drivers to take the time to look out for pedestrians, slow-down, and incorporate pedestrian awareness in their driving routines," said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. 

At some point during the day, everyone is a pedestrian. The DPW-Office of Highway Safety offers these driving tips to keep everyone safe: 

  1. Use extra caution when driving in hard to see conditions 
  2. Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street, around schools, and in neighborhoods where children are present. 
  3. Drive sober. 
  4. Always stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. 
  5. Look out for pedestrians everywhere and minimized blind spots. 
  6. Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing where drivers can't see. 

October is a timely reminder, as more pedestrians will be out at the end of the month for Halloween. 

On Halloween, families will be trick-or-treating with children who may be unaware of traffic and quick to dart into the street. Drivers are urged to take extra care and expect more pedestrians in unexpected places. 

Recent Pedestrian Safety Statistics: 

In the calendar year 2024, Guam recorded 3,994 crashes, resulting in 15 fatalities - 6 of which were pedestrians, accounting for 40% of all roadway deaths. 

And in calendar year 2023, there were 1,837 crashes reported with 10 fatalities - 4 pedestrians and 1 bicyclist – again making up 40% of all roadway fatalities.