Pedestrian Fatalities Soar to a 40-Year High in the United States
Pedestrian deaths in the United States have reached a 40-year high, according to a preliminary report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). The report highlights the alarming trend of pedestrian fatalities, with an estimated 7,508 pedestrian deaths in 2022, the highest number since 1981. The increase in fatalities was already occurring before the pandemic, but the COVID-19 crisis exacerbated the situation. In 2021 alone, there was a 13% increase in pedestrian deaths compared to the previous year, with pedestrian fatalities rising by 77% between 2010 and 2021.
Several factors contribute to the growing dangers faced by pedestrians. One significant factor is the design of roads, with wide, high-speed arterial roads known as "stroads" posing a particular risk. These roads lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure such as adequate lighting and crosswalks, leading to a high percentage of pedestrian fatalities occurring on them. Another factor is the preference for larger vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, which have become increasingly popular among US consumers. These larger vehicles have larger blind spots and pose a greater threat to pedestrians when involved in accidents. Additionally, the pandemic, social unrest, and a perceived decrease in law enforcement may have contributed to more reckless driving and aggressive behavior on the roads.