As a personal injury law firm, we are deeply concerned about the recent increase in pedestrian fatalities. According to a new study from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian deaths in the United States have reached a 40-year high. In 2022, an estimated 7,485 pedestrians were killed by drivers, an average of 20 deaths per day. This represents a 12% increase over the previous year.
The study also found that the pedestrian fatality rate has been increasing for over a decade. In 2010, the pedestrian fatality rate was 1.61 per 100,000 people. By 2022, the rate had increased to 2.26 per 100,000 people.
Why Are Pedestrian Fatalities Increasing?
There are a number of factors that are contributing to the increase in pedestrian fatalities, including:
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving is a major factor in many pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving are more likely to miss pedestrians on the road.
- Speeding: Speeding is another major factor in pedestrian accidents. When drivers are speeding, they have less time to react to pedestrians on the road.
- Impaired driving: Impaired driving is also a major factor in pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to make mistakes and hit pedestrians.
- Pedestrian error: While pedestrian error is a factor in some pedestrian accidents, it is important to note that drivers have a responsibility to avoid hitting pedestrians, regardless of whether the pedestrian is at fault.
What Can Be Done to Reduce Pedestrian Fatalities?
There are a number of things that can be done to reduce pedestrian fatalities, including:
- Enacting stricter laws on distracted driving: States need to enact stricter laws on distracted driving and enforce those laws more vigorously.
- Reducing speed limits in areas where pedestrians are present: Reducing speed limits in areas where pedestrians are present can give drivers more time to react and avoid accidents.
- Cracking down on impaired driving: Law enforcement needs to crack down on impaired driving and hold drunk and drugged drivers accountable for their actions.
- Improving pedestrian infrastructure: Cities and towns need to improve pedestrian infrastructure, such as crosswalks and sidewalks, to make it safer for pedestrians to walk and bike.
What to Do If You or Someone You Love Is Injured in a Pedestrian Accident
If you or someone you love is injured in a car or pedestrian accident, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights and options. An experienced attorney can help you investigate the accident, identify the responsible parties, and pursue the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life.
We Stand With Pedestrian Accident Victims
Our attorneys have extensive experience representing victims of pedestrian accidents. We understand the unique challenges that pedestrian accident victims face, and we are committed to helping them obtain the compensation they need to recover and rebuild their lives.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Morefield Speicher Bachman today for a free consultation. We can help you understand your legal rights and options, and we can develop a strategy to get you the compensation you deserve.