State transportation officials said Thursday that in 2021 there have been nearly 200 traffic crashes involving pedestrians that left dozens dead and even more injured in the Pharr district.

In an effort to encourage safe driving the Texas Department of Transportation will be establishing “walking billboards” in high-traffic areas to remind Texans of laws that ensure the safety of drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists when sharing the road.

The billboards will run Thursday, Sep. 8 from 3 to 7 p.m. on 10th Street, Nolana, and Trenton Road in McAllen.

According to TxDOT, the Pharr district had a total of 198 traffic crashes involving pedestrians that resulted in 32 deaths and 50 serious injuries as well as 92 crashes involving bicyclists. The bicyclist crashes resulted in three deaths and 10 serious injuries.

The “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign along with the pedestrian and bicycle safety initiative are programs established in hopes of reversing the continually increasing number of fatal crashes in Texas.

Here are Texas laws to follow while on the road:

>> Stop and yield for pedestrians, bicyclists and other vulnerable road users in crosswalks.

>> When turning, yield the right of way to pedestrians and bicyclists.

>> Pass bikes at a safe distance and give bicyclists room to ride.

>> Cross the street only at intersections and crosswalks.

>> Obey all traffic and crosswalk signals.

>> Use sidewalks. If there’s no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic.

If you’re riding a bike:

>> Always stop at red lights and stop signs.

>> Ride in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes or ride as near as possible to the right-hand curb.

>> Use hand signals when turning or stopping.

>> At night, make sure your bike has a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the back.