The latest statistics for pedestrian deaths across America show that 2023 was a record year, and not in a good way: according to the GovernorsHighway Safety Association, pedestrian deaths were higher than they’ve been in over forty years. Why are they high? What leads to pedestrian deaths? How can we keep people safe?
Unsurprisingly, alcohol and drugs play a part in pedestrian deaths– impaired driving is a major cause of pedestrian deaths. Impatient drivers also contribute to pedestrian deaths. In many cases, pedestrians have the right of way, but drivers don’t always see them or wait for them to cross.
Pedestrians die much more frequently at night than they do in the daytime, understandably, and bad weather, road construction, left-hand turns, and recklessness also contribute to pedestrian deaths.
It is not surprising to learn that distracted driving is another reason why drivers strike walkers; texting and cell phone usage diverts drivers’ attention from the road.
Pedestrian deaths had fallen by over 90% since 1920, but starting around 2010, the rate started to rise again in the U.S., per a December 2023 story in the New York Times.
Analysts tried to account for this increase and came to one conclusion: cell phones were to blame. Not only do drivers get distracted by their phones, but pedestrians may be paying more attention to their screens than what’s going on around them.
How can pedestrians be safer?
1.Stay off your phone while driving or walking. Being alert and focused is imperative for pedestrian safety.
2.Don’t drink or get high and drive.
3.Follow the rules of the road at all times.
4.Always keep an eye out for pedestrians, particularly when it’s dark out.If you’re the pedestrian, you might want to try the following safety measures:
1.Don’t walk on the road; use sidewalks when available and stay off the road itself when they’re not.
2.Don’t look at your device when motorists are around you.
3.Don’t assume that drivers are paying attention and can see you.
4.Use designated crosswalks whenever available.
5.Wear light and/or reflective clothing when walking at night. Make yourself easier for drivers to see.
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