Pedestrian Deaths Have Increased Over the Years—Why?

The number of pedestrian fatalities continues to grow.

In March 2017, the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA) released a report revealing an 11% increase in the number of pedestrian traffic fatalities from the previous year. This is the largest single year increase ever. Close to 6,000 pedestrians died last year. This is proving counterintuitive to many who thought there would be a drop in the number of overall traffic fatalities as cars continue to develop more and more technological safety features.

So, why the increase in pedestrian deaths? The GHSA and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believe there are several possible causes:

• More people on the road: Low gas prices and a strong economy have put more cars on the road more often.
• Distracted walking: Phones are proving to be dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike. Pedestrians being distracted by their phones can prevent them from being aware of traffic patterns.
• Vehicle speeds: High speeds increase the likelihood of a pedestrian being struck by a car as well as the possibility of the pedestrian sustaining severe, even fatal, injuries. Many cities like New York City have lowered speed limits on most streets to around 25 mph to help protect pedestrians.
• Alcohol: The GHSA report showed that 15% of pedestrians killed each year are hit by a drunk driver and 34% of pedestrians killed each year are legally drunk themselves. This means that one third of pedestrians killed had BAC levels above .08.
• Age: The CDC reports that individuals aged 65 and older accounted for 19% of all pedestrian deaths in 2015. In that same year, one in every five children under the age of 15 who died in traffic crashes were pedestrians.

Everyone can do their part to help reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities. Drivers, always have a zero drinking and driving as well as a distracted driving policy. Pay attention to pedestrians and crosswalk areas. Pedestrians, consider increasing your nighttime visibility by carrying a flashlight and wearing reflective clothing. Additionally, always cross at a designated crosswalk or intersection when possible.

Pedestrian traffic crashes often lead to serious, if not fatal, injuries. Attorney Rob Lovett is here to fight for the injured. If you have been hurt due to the negligent actions of another, you are legally entitled to compensation. Attorney Lovett is here to help you enforce this right to the fullest extent of the law. Contact the Lovett Law Firm today.