The disclosure includes embodiments for determining to transmit an invitation to join a vehicular mesh network based on a pedestrian safety message (PSM message) according to some embodiments. A method, according to some embodiments includes receiving, by a first dedicated short range communication (DSRC) radio, a PSM message that is broadcast by a second DSRC radio that is operable to broadcast the PSM message. The method includes transmitting, by the first DSRC radio, a wireless message to the second DSRC radio which includes an invitation, wherein the wireless message is transmitted responsive to receipt of the PSM message.