A recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) shows that pedestrian traffic deaths hit a 41-year high last year. Throughout the country, at least 7,508 people were hit and killed by cars. That’s roughly 20 people per day.
This is the highest number of pedestrian deaths since 1981. The data shows that these deaths went up 77% since 2010 (compared to a 25% increase of all other traffic deaths) and 19% just since 2019. In every way, this is a troubling trend.
Read on to learn the states with the highest pedestrian deaths, the possible reasons for the current uptick, and potential solutions moving forward.
States with highest (and lowest) rates of pedestrian deaths
Some states have higher rates of pedestrian deaths than others. For example, New Mexico leads the way with 4.4 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 people. In fact, they’ve been on top of the list for the seventh year in a row.
Other states with a high rate of pedestrian deaths include Airzona (4.17 deaths per 100,000) and Florida (3.7 per 100,000).
States with the least amount of pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 include Iowa (0.56 per 100,000), North Dakota (0.77 per 100,00), and Minnesota (0.8 per 100,000).
Possible causes for the recent rise in pedestrian deaths
It’s unclear what is causing the recent rise in pedestrian deaths. However, Angie Schmitt, author of “Right of Way: Race, Class, and the Silent Epidemic of Pedestrian Deaths in America,” told the New York Times a few of her theories. According to her, the uptick in pedestrian deaths may have a few causes:
- Suburbs are changing, and more people are walking in neighborhoods designed for cars.
- The general population is aging, and older people are more vulnerable to accidents and injuries.
- There has been an increase in the number of sport utility vehicles and large pickukp trucks on the road.
Other possible reasons for the increase in pedestrian deaths outlined in the original GHSA report include riskier driving during the COVID-19 pandemic and a lack of awareness and enforcement of laws meant to keep pedestrians safe.
Potential solutions to reducing pedestrian deaths
So how does the U.S. reverse the trend of increasing pedestrian deaths? According to Schmitt, roads need to be designed with more sidewalks and street lighting. In addition, pedestrian safety needs to be considered in vehicle design.
The GHSA report suggested improving infrastructure, lowering driving speeds, and focusing traffic enforcement on people who are speeding or driving recklessly (e.g. driving while distracted or impaired).
All of these solutions have promise. The trick is to actually implement them. This will require dedicated effort by local governments, law enforcement, city developers, and drivers and pedestrians alike.
Of course, pedestrian deaths won’t ever be completely eradicated. However, this isn’t an excuse to not try to reduce them or at least keep them from increasing year after year.
As a driver, do your part to be more aware of pedestrians as you drive. As a pedstrian, stay vigilant of reckless drivers and err on the side of caution.
If you become a victim to a pedestrian accident, consult a competent auto accident attorney. They can represent you in court and help ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Nobody should have to live with the lifelong impact of serious injuries or disability.
The least you can do is make sure you have a lawyer on your side who will protect your rights.