Committee backs resolution urging visibility measures after spike in nighttime pedestrian deaths

Lawmakers on the Special Rules Committee approved a resolution urging awareness and practical steps to improve pedestrian visibility after hearing data that most pedestrian fatalities occur at night.

Representative Glaze, presenting House Resolution 1177, said the measure focuses on visibility as an effective, low-cost way to reduce nighttime pedestrian deaths. "When drivers cannot see pedestrians in time, tragedy follows," Glaze said, and she cited guidance from the U.S. Federal Office of Transportation and ongoing efforts by the Georgia Department of Transportation’s See and Be Seen campaign.

Glaze said the resolution emphasizes education and partnerships rather than penalties and proposed piloting distribution of reflective vests in GDOT District 6, with grant support through GEDA to place vests near worksites and in community distribution points.

Representative McQueen and others asked how the state would ensure equitable access to visibility gear for people who are cash‑strapped or walk out of necessity. Glaze answered that the sponsor hopes to secure grant funding and GDOT backing to pilot local distribution.

Representative McQueen moved that the committee do pass HR 1177; a second was recorded and the committee approved the resolution by voice vote with no recorded opposition. The sponsor said the pilot and partnership approach is intended to pair infrastructure improvements with awareness and gear distribution.

The resolution is nonbinding and urges state agencies and local partners to coordinate public education and pilot distribution efforts; it will proceed through the rules process.