Most drivers prioritize convenience when driving, but once out of their cars, it’s a different story. This is referred to as the parking lot conundrum and recognizes that we are all pedestrians at some point, which means priorities quickly switch to personal safety as people navigate car dominated landscapes by foot or via mobility assist devices. It also means advocacy messages can get watered down or murky when they conflict with personal convenience.

Establishing a ‘safety culture’ and shared responsibility within our transportation systems is crucial to the successful implementation of Vision Zero. Communities committed to Vision Zero concepts and improving community safety must invest in community wide education campaigns that make the case in human terms. Highlighting the stories of people and families impacted by traffic violence, accurate data that underscores the benefits of protected bike lanes, safety countermeasures contributing to property values and economic benefit to businesses, and examples of community successes built around more walkable-bikeable neighborhoods.