On a recent Monday, a harrowing incident unfolded near the intersection of North Providence Road and East Texas Avenue in Columbia. According to eyewitnesses, a woman was struck by a blue Toyota while crossing the street. Moments later, another vehicle reportedly rolled over her arm. The situation escalated rapidly as a witness rushed into the middle of the road to halt traffic, highlighting the immediate dangers pedestrians face daily.

The tragic event underscores a growing concern across Missouri, where pedestrian fatalities have reached alarming heights. Despite a general decline in overall traffic deaths, pedestrian casualties surged by 16% in 2024, reaching a record high. Many of these incidents occurred when individuals exited their vehicles after crashes or breakdowns, placing themselves in vulnerable positions. Kyle Green from the Missouri State Highway Patrol emphasized the importance of staying inside one's vehicle during emergencies to avoid becoming a target for oncoming traffic. Additionally, distracted walking due to mobile phone use has become a significant issue, with pedestrians often assuming they are visible in crosswalks when drivers may not be paying attention.

In response to this crisis, Missouri has introduced the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law, which bans drivers from holding or touching cell phones while driving. Named in honor of Randall Siddens, who tragically lost his life in a collision involving a distracted driver, this law aims to reduce the number of fatal accidents caused by distractions. While enforcement has faced challenges due to adverse weather conditions, authorities remain committed to improving road safety through education and legislation. The message is clear: responsible driving and walking practices can save lives. By adhering to simple actions like buckling up, putting phones away, slowing down, and staying sober, we can collectively make Missouri’s roads safer for everyone.