Everyone has different preferences when it comes to transportation, but there’s one means of conveyance that all road users share — everyone is a pedestrian.

Unfortunately, pedestrians are one of the few groups of road users that experience a high fatality rate in the United States. In 2013, 4,735 deaths occurred while an estimated 66,000 were injured.  

Don’t think this will happen to you? Think again.

On average, a pedestrian is killed every two hours and injured every eight minutes in traffic crashes. 

Over the years, there has been plenty of controversy and mockery regarding the AFI 91-207, paragraph 3.6 regarding Installation Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety. 

Paragraph 3.6.2 states individuals jogging, running or walking on roadways at night or in inclement weather (e.g., fog, rain, sleet, snow, etc.), will wear clothing/accessories containing retro-reflective properties visible from the front and back. 

Believe it or not, 88 percent of pedestrian fatalities occur during normal weather conditions (clear/cloudy), compared with rainy, snowy and foggy conditions. 

A majority of the pedestrian fatalities, 70 percent, occurred after hours, that is, 6 p.m. to 5:59 a.m. 

As the days get shorter during the winter months, this safety consideration becomes increasingly more important. 

The statistics provided by the National Highway Traffic Administration drive home the reasons why high visible outer garments and reflective belts are necessary. 

The 75th Air Base Wing Safety Office is working hard to raise awareness of the dangers to pedestrians, and to provide leadership, expertise, and resources for Airmen to combat these accidents. 

The next time you step out of your car and head toward your building, go for a walk or strap on your helmet for a bike ride, take a moment to “reflect.” 

It could save your life.