A recent report reveals a concerning surge in pedestrian fatalities on American roads. Over 7,500 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic accidents in 2022, the highest number recorded since 1981. This represents a slight increase from the 2021 figures, according to projections from the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA).
These projections, based on data from nearly all U.S. states and Washington D.C., paint a grim picture of road safety. The actual number of deaths may be even higher, as data from Oklahoma, which typically reports around 92 pedestrian deaths annually, was not included in the analysis.
The GHSA points to significant increases in pedestrian deaths in Arizona, Virginia, and Oregon as contributing factors to the overall rise. While some states saw decreases in such accidents, the upward trend in these specific states pushed the national total higher. Rhode Island was the only state where the number of pedestrian deaths remained unchanged.
To understand the circumstances surrounding these tragedies, the report delved into 2021 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This analysis revealed that risky driving behaviors, including speeding, played a substantial role. Speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of all traffic fatalities in 2020 and 2021.
Alcohol impairment also continues to be a significant concern. Alcohol-related traffic deaths saw a 5% increase from 2020 to 2021, adding to a troubling 14% surge in 2020, potentially linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. A substantial portion of adult pedestrians killed in crashes also had elevated blood alcohol content levels.
The report further highlights that a majority of these fatal accidents occurred at night under artificial lighting conditions. Vehicle type also appears to be a factor, with pickup trucks and SUVs involved in a larger percentage of pedestrian deaths compared to smaller cars.
In response to these findings, the NHTSA has proposed mandatory automatic emergency braking systems for heavier vehicles. This technology aims to mitigate the severity and frequency of rear-end collisions, potentially saving lives and improving overall road safety. The proposal underscores the urgency of addressing the alarming rise in pedestrian fatalities and improving safety for all road users.
