Pedestrians in the U.S. are at an increased risk of being killed in an automobile versus pedestrian accident. The total number of fatal pedestrian accidents has increased in the U.S., climbing 10 percent in 2015, compared to 2014 totals.
According to the annual report produced by the Governor’s Highway Safety Association, the total number of pedestrian fatalities has increased 19 percent in the five-year period from 2009 to 2014; those on foot now account for the greatest share of traffic fatalities over the past 25 years. Pedestrian fatalities, in respect to total vehicle accident deaths, climbed to 15 percent in 2014, the highest it’s been since 1990; experts project that this percentage will hold steady in 2015.
The report notes various behaviors which are placing pedestrians at greater risk. Distraction, of both drivers and pedestrians, is increasing the occurrence of pedestrian fatalities. Pedestrian intoxication is another factor; 34 percent of pedestrians who were killed in a vehicle collision had blood alcohol content at or above the legal limit, compared to only 15 percent of drivers involved in those accidents. If you or someone you know has been injured by being hit by a car contact one of our South Bend car accident lawyers for a free consultation.
Pedestrian Deaths Rise While Total Traffic Deaths Decline
Despite increasing fatal pedestrian accidents, the total number of traffic fatalities in the U.S. is on the decline. Improved vehicle safety technologies are thought to have contributed to the decline in accident deaths. Unfortunately, while vehicle drivers and passengers are better protected, pedestrians face the same risk of injury or fatality as before if they are involved in a vehicle accident.
In the European Union, vehicles are required to have features that will protect pedestrians in the event of an accident; the U.S. requires no such pedestrian safety features on automobiles.
Have you lost a loved one in a fatal pedestrian accident? If so, you may be entitled to compensation to cover the damages you’ve incurred. A South Bend personal injury lawyer from our law firm can work to maximize this amount for your family.
Call (574) 444-0741 or contact us online to schedule a free case review.
