MADISON — As students of all ages prepare to return to classrooms this fall, specialists at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital — Madison’s Level II Trauma Center are urging drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and e-bike riders to prioritize safety following a significant increase in pedestrian crashes in recent months. According to traffic safety data from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, pedestrian crashes in southwest Wisconsin were up 45% from January through July 2026 compared to the average for the same period over the previous three years, raising concerns as roadways become increasingly busy during the back-to-school season.
“This summer we’ve seen an increase in these types of accidents,” said Dr. Ryan Holden, trauma surgeon and trauma medical director at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital — Madison. “As roadways become busier and more people are walking, biking and riding e-bikes, the potential for serious interactions with vehicles increases. With school starting soon and college students returning to campus, it’s especially important for everyone to stay alert.”
As students head back to school, college campuses, neighborhoods and community trails, Holden said pedestrians, cyclists and e-bike riders remain especially vulnerable because they have little protection in a crash.
“Pedestrians and cyclists are completely exposed during a collision,” Holden said. “The body often absorbs the full force of the impact, and even crashes at relatively moderate speeds can cause life-threatening injuries. E-bike riders may also be traveling faster than traditional cyclists, which can increase injury severity when a collision occurs.”
Trauma care providers frequently treat serious injuries resulting from these crashes, including head and brain injuries, skull fractures, broken bones, pelvic fractures, spinal injuries, internal bleeding and chest trauma.
“Many of the injuries we see are severe, complex and potentially life-threatening,” Holden said. “Traumatic brain injuries are among the most concerning because they can result in permanent disability. Internal bleeding may not always be visible but can quickly become life-threatening. These injuries often require coordinated care from trauma surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, rehabilitation teams and many others.”
Hospital leaders emphasize that the consequences of a serious crash extend far beyond the initial injury.
“Recovery often continues long after a patient leaves the hospital,” Holden said. “Many individuals require physical therapy, additional surgeries or extended rehabilitation.
Significant injuries can affect a person’s ability to work, attend school, care for family members or participate in activities they enjoy. Families often become caregivers and face emotional, physical and financial stress during recovery.”
As thousands of students return to daily commutes in the coming weeks, drivers are being reminded to exercise extra caution.
“Distracted driving continues to be a major safety concern,” Holden said. “Looking at a phone, navigation system or other device for even a few seconds can have devastating consequences. Drivers should slow down near schools, parks, trails and crosswalks, put distractions away, and always look carefully for pedestrians, cyclists and e-bike riders before turning or changing lanes.”
Holden also encourages motorists to give cyclists adequate space when passing and to pay close attention at intersections, where many serious crashes occur.
Cyclists and e-bike riders can reduce their risk by wearing properly fitted helmets, obeying traffic laws, using lights and reflective gear, and making eye contact with drivers whenever possible.
“Never assume a motorist sees you,” Holden said. “Visibility and predictability are critical to staying safe.”
Pedestrians can also help reduce risk by using sidewalks and designated crossings, remaining alert, avoiding distractions, and making themselves visible, especially during low-light conditions.
“Whether you’re driving, biking, riding an e-bike or walking, everyone using the roadway shares responsibility for staying alert and predictable,” Holden said. “A few seconds of attention can prevent a lifetime of consequences.”
Every trip matters. As area roads, sidewalks and trails become busier this fall, SSM Health encourages all community members to make safety a priority. Slow down, eliminate distractions and stay aware of others sharing the road. Together, we can help prevent avoidable tragedies.
