Do you regularly take a walk, or often decide to go on foot to a nearby destination because you know it is good for you and has proven health benefits? Many people do this too, but did you know that walking may be on its way to being a significant public safety issue?
In 2018 the number of pedestrians killed by motor vehicles is the highest it’s been in 30 years. And since 2009, the number of pedestrians killed by cars has been increasing every year.
In contrast, motor vehicle fatalities have been on a decline in recent years. This is attributed to safety advancements and technology that have increased the number of survivors of motor vehicle accidents. But the significant increase in pedestrian deaths over the same period of time is an alarming trend.
Why Are More Pedestrians Being Killed by Motor Vehicles?
A February 2019 report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) revealed some of the reasons for the alarming increase in pedestrian fatalities. More people are walking today than ever before for health and fitness reasons. It is notable that the report showed most fatal pedestrian accidents happen on local streets – especially at night. In fact, 90% or more of fatal pedestrian accidents occurred during nighttime, according to the report.
As expected, alcohol use – by either the driver or the pedestrian, or both, – was found to be a factor in more than 50% of all pedestrian fatalities in 2017. Another reason is the increase in the number of SUV’s and other large vehicles on the road. The report found that more than 50% of all fatal pedestrian accidents since 2013 involved SUV’s.
The report notes that distracted driving, due to the use of cell phones and text messaging, has also contributed to the increase in pedestrian deaths.
Is There a Solution to These Problems?
Richard Retting, the author of the GHSA report had this to say about dealing with the alarming increase in pedestrian accidents:
“We have a range of proven infrastructure, engineering, and behavioral strategies that we know can reduce pedestrian deaths. Critical improvements to road and vehicle design are being made, but take significant time and resources to implement. It is also important to conduct law enforcement and safety education campaigns now to ensure drivers and pedestrians can safely coexist. It’s crucial to do everything we can to protect pedestrians utilizing a broad approach.”
Colorado Springs Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
At Gaddis, Herd, Craw & Adams, P.C., we are here to assist clients who have suffered serious injuries caused by pedestrian accidents. Our team understands that these accidents can result in expensive medical bills for treatment and physical therapy, which is why we will use our extensive resources to pursue the financial compensation you deserve.
Call (719) 625-3310 to set up your free case consultation with the attorneys at our law firm.