Pedestrian Fatalities in the U.S. Hit Alarming Levels
A recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) has shed light on the persistent and troubling rise in pedestrian fatalities in the United States. The 2023 data reveals that an estimated 7,318 pedestrians were killed in motor-vehicle crashes, a 14% increase from the 6,412 fatalities recorded in 2019. Despite a slight decrease of over 5% from 2022 to 2023, these numbers highlight a disturbing trend to safety advocates. (Governors Highway Safety Association) (California Active Transportation Safety Information Pages/CATSIP).
The pedestrian death toll in 2022 was the highest since 1981, with 7,508 individuals losing their lives. This is a significant escalation in fatalities over the past decade, with pedestrian deaths skyrocketing by 77% since 2010. This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address this growing public safety issue (CATSIP) (Governors Highway Safety Association).
Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to this increase in pedestrian fatalities. Dangerous driving behaviors, which surged at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, have only escalated. Speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving have all played a role in endangering pedestrians. Additionally, the country’s infrastructure often fails to protect those on foot. The absence of sidewalks, poor lighting, and road designs that prioritize vehicle speed over pedestrian safety, exacerbate the risk (Governors Highway Safety Association) (Governors Highway Safety Association).
Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Groups
The report highlights that certain demographics are disproportionately affected. Pedestrians of color, particularly Black and Hispanic individuals, are overrepresented in fatality statistics. Additionally, crashes involving SUVs have increased at a faster rate than those involving passenger cars. SUVs, due to their size and weight, are more likely to cause severe injuries or fatalities in collisions with pedestrians (Governors Highway Safety Association) (Governors Highway Safety Association).
Solutions: Embracing a Safe System Approach
To counter this alarming trend, the GHSA advocates for a comprehensive “Safe System” approach. This strategy involves designing safer roadways, reducing vehicle speeds, and enhancing post-crash care. The system also emphasizes the importance of practicing safe behaviors among all road users. Implementing these measures could significantly reduce pedestrian fatalities, and create a safer environment for everyone (Governors Highway Safety Association) (Governors Highway Safety Association).
Jonathan Adkins, GHSA Chief Executive Officer, stated, “Every day, 20 people go for a walk and do not return home. These are preventable tragedies. We know what works – better-designed infrastructure, lower speeds, addressing risky driving behaviors. Enough is enough.” (Governors Highway Safety Association)
It is important to note this rise in pedestrian fatalities is not just a statistic; this increase is a public health crisis that requires immediate action. In implementing proven safety measures and fostering a culture of responsibility among drivers, we can make walking a safe and enjoyable mode of transportation for all.
We at the Herd Law Firm, PLLC, are drivers, walkers, bicyclists, and motorcycle riders, too! We support other drivers, pedestrians, bikers and motorcyclists injured or killed on the road, and have successfully represented such victims seeking the assistance and compensation they so need and deserve.
7/31/2024
