Based on preliminary data, it looks like the number of pedestrian death for 2014 will be the same as the previous year, which is about 15% higher than in 2009. This is in spite of a 25% decrease in traffic fatalities overall, over the last decade. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) an estimated 2,125 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. during the first half of 2014.
The Most Dangerous States
Although the final numbers aren’t in for 2014, here is what we know about 2013: Four states accounted for 43% of all of the pedestrian deaths in the country in 2013. Those were California, Florida, Texas, and New York. However, that number alone does not mean they were the most dangerous. The numbers reflect that they are states with high populations.
But when population is factored in, we get the states with the highest per capita death rates per 100,000 population:
- Delaware – 2.70
- Florida – 2.56
- Montana – 2.36
- New Mexico – 2.35
- Nevada – 2.33
- Arizona – 2.28
- Louisiana – 2.10
- South Carolina – 2.09
Another factor to consider is the percentage of motor vehicle deaths that were pedestrians. This tends to be higher in urban areas, which probably explains why it was so high in the District of Columbia which is entirely urban.
- District of Columbia – 45%
- New York – 28%
- Nevada – 25%
- Delaware – 25%
Why Are Pedestrian Fatalities So High?
We don’t have all the data it would take to really pinpoint why pedestrian deaths have increase so much since 2009, but there are some theories. According to the GSHA’s report:
- More people may be choosing to walk instead of drive due to the recession
- There may be more pedestrians who are unfamiliar with the rules of the road as a result of changes in demographics
- Warmer weather may have increased pedestrian activity
Some studies suggest that distraction may have contributed to the increase in pedestrian deaths.
Learn more information about pedestrian accidents or find a qualified accident attorney today.
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