Statistics for 2019 show pedestrian accidents on the rise
New York City is a bustling city with a seemingly endless amount of traffic. Many people get around as pedestrians. While this is beneficial in numerous ways, including saving money, getting exercise and helping the environment, there are inherent dangers when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Pedestrian accidents are common and can lead to severe injuries and fatalities.
How common are pedestrian accidents?
According to information from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), nearly 6,600 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. in 2019. This is problematic as it shows the overall trend of pedestrian fatalities is on the upswing with a 60% rise from the previous decade. In 2009, slightly more than 4,100 pedestrians were killed. States have taken various steps to make the roads safer for pedestrians including Vision Zero, an attempt to end pedestrian fatalities.
The numbers also state there was a 5% increase when compared to 2018, and 2019 fatalities were at their highest in three decades. For every 100,000 people, two died – the most since 1997.
Factors leading to pedestrian accidents
Some states have a worse record for pedestrian safety than others, but this is a nationwide challenge that needs to be addressed. Factors believed to be at the forefront of this concerning phenomenon include:
- The prevalence of SUVs on the road: SUVs are known to have a higher chance than smaller vehicles of causing a fatality after a pedestrian accident.
- Warming weather: More temperate weather means an increased number of people are out-and-about meandering through the streets by foot.
- Distracted driving: Common types of distracted driving include texting and driving, drowsy driving and drunk driving.
Ultimately, pedestrians are afforded no protection when they are walking. Being hit by a motor vehicle may cause significant damage including brain trauma, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, cuts and more. This can spark a long hospital stay, massive medical expenses and a dramatically changed life. A pedestrian crash can also lead to a fatality. The family left behind will need to consider their financial, personal and emotional future. A legal filing might be needed to cover for all that was lost. A law firm with experience in pedestrian accidents may be able to help.