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GHSA: no respite in pedestrian deaths in 2019

On Behalf of | Jun 8, 2020 | car accidents

When warmer weather comes, more people will be out on the roads in Indiana and throughout the country. This can lead to more accidents between drivers and pedestrians, and needless to say, such accidents almost never turn out well for the pedestrians.

Perhaps you yourself were injured. Sadly, not everyone survives. Since 2009, the number of pedestrian fatalities has been escalating, and according to a preliminary study from the Governors Highway Safety Administration, it may have reached a 30-year high in 2019.

Results of the GHSA study

The GHSA only had data that extended through June 2019, but based on this, the organization estimated that 6,590 pedestrians died in auto accidents last year. Assuming that this is accurate, it marks a 5% increase from 2018. Compared to 2009, when 4,109 pedestrians died, it marks a 60% spike. Pedestrian fatalities have not been this high since 1988. The fatality rate came to 2 per 100,000 people, the highest since 1997.

By state, the highest fatality rates per 100,000 people were in Florida, New Mexico and Hawaii whereas the lowest rates were in Vermont, Wisconsin and Idaho. Some of the most populous states saw the most fatalities. Forty-seven percent of fatalities were in California, Arizona, Texas, Georgia and Florida: five states that together compose one-third of the U.S. population.

Factors behind the increase

Other traffic deaths saw an overall increase of 2% between 2009 and 2018, which begs the question of why pedestrian deaths have been skyrocketing. The GHSA offers a few explanations, including the prevalence of distracted drivers. Phones are being equipped with more potential sources of distraction. In addition, more people are buying SUVs and light trucks, which are deadlier than ordinary cars when it comes to pedestrian crashes.

Having a lawyer for serious injury cases

Pedestrian collisions can result in serious injuries, but victims may be reimbursed for the losses relating to those injuries, including medical bills and the pain and suffering. If you or a child was hurt in such an accident, you may want to consult a lawyer to help take your case to court and pursue the maximum amount in damages.