#Japan #Toyota Mobility #Toyota City #Pedestrian Safety #visibility check

Toyota Mobility Foundation Launches Visibility Assessment at Toyoda Industry Festa 2025

On September 13 and 14, 2025, the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF), led by Chairman Akio Toyoda, introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reducing pedestrian casualties during twilight and night hours. This event, known as the Toyoda Industry Festa 2025, took place in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, and featured the innovative 'Visibility Check' assessment.

What is the Visibility Check?

The 'Visibility Check' is designed to simulate how a pedestrian's clothing appears to drivers, thereby raising awareness about the importance of wearing brightly colored clothing. The assessment aims specifically to tackle the alarming number of pedestrian accidents that occur during the twilight hours, which are defined as the hour before and after sunset. The program is an effort to engage the community and emphasize safer clothing choices for evening outings.

During the event, the response from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with 347 people, particularly families, participating in the assessment. They gained valuable insights into how their clothing visibility affects their safety on the road. The aim was to educate attendees on the benefits of wearing bright clothing and reflective materials, as these items can significantly enhance visibility to drivers, especially in low light conditions.

The Mechanics of the Visibility Check

Since its inception in 2022, the 'Visibility Check' has garnered the participation of nearly 2,000 individuals. Feedback collected from a voluntary survey revealed that 94% of participants expressed an intention to wear brighter clothing or incorporate reflective materials into their attire after experiencing the assessment. This statistic highlights the program's success in influencing people's choices regarding pedestrian safety.

TMF remains committed to its goal of eliminating pedestrian versus vehicle accidents. By providing valuable educational tools such as the 'Visibility Check', TMF aims to foster greater awareness and create a safer environment for pedestrians. The foundation emphasizes the idea that pedestrians should feel enlightened and empowered through informative initiatives.

The organization’s efforts are not limited to just one event; TMF plans to continue developing resources and awareness campaigns focusing on pedestrian visibility and safety. The collaborative spirit of the 'Visibility Check' also reflects the partnership between TMF and JA Kyosai, with whom they conducted previous events to promote safety.

Looking Ahead

As urban areas continue to evolve and traffic increases, pedestrian safety becomes paramount. TMF’s proactive approach in addressing this issue is commendable. By utilizing innovative technology and community engagement, the foundation is paving the way for future initiatives that prioritize the safety of pedestrians.

As more people become aware of how their clothing impacts their visibility, it’s hoped that the incidence of pedestrian accidents will decrease, creating safer streets for everyone—whether walking, cycling, or driving.

For more information on the Toyota Mobility Foundation's initiatives, and to learn more about how you can improve your visibility as a pedestrian, please visit their official website.