Pedestrian Safety Statistics
Pedestrians are some of the most vulnerable road users. In 2021, there were 6,516 pedestrian fatalities in the United States, accounting for 17% of all traffic fatalities. Pedestrians are also more likely to be injured in traffic crashes than other road users. In 2021, there were an estimated 137,000 pedestrians injured in traffic crashes.
There are a number of factors that contribute to pedestrian crashes. One of the most common factors is driver negligence. Drivers may fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, or they may be distracted or impaired. Pedestrians can also contribute to crashes by jaywalking, crossing the street against the light, or not being visible to drivers.
There are a number of things that can be done to improve pedestrian safety. One important step is to educate drivers and pedestrians about the rules of the road. Drivers need to be aware of the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of yielding to pedestrians. Pedestrians need to be aware of the dangers of jaywalking and crossing the street against the light.
Another important step to improve pedestrian safety is to make our roads more pedestrian-friendly. This includes things like building wider sidewalks, installing crosswalks, and improving lighting. We can also make our roads safer for pedestrians by reducing speed limits in areas where pedestrians are frequently present.
Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers, pedestrians, and policymakers all have a role to play in making our roads safer for everyone.
Pedestrian Safety Statistics by Age
Pedestrians of all ages are at risk of being involved in a traffic crash, but some age groups are more at risk than others. Children and older adults are particularly vulnerable. In 2021, children under the age of 15 accounted for 13% of all pedestrian fatalities. Adults aged 65 and over accounted for 20% of all pedestrian fatalities.
Pedestrian Safety Statistics by Time of Day
Pedestrian crashes are more likely to occur at certain times of day. In 2021, 75% of pedestrian fatalities occurred between the hours of 6pm and 6am. This is likely due to the fact that there is less light at night, making it more difficult for drivers to see pedestrians.
Pedestrian Safety Statistics by Location
Pedestrian crashes are more likely to occur in certain locations. In 2021, 70% of pedestrian fatalities occurred in urban areas. This is likely due to the fact that there is more traffic in urban areas.
Conclusion
Pedestrian safety is a serious issue. Every year, thousands of pedestrians are killed or injured in traffic crashes. There are a number of things that can be done to improve pedestrian safety, including educating drivers and pedestrians about the rules of the road, making our roads more pedestrian-friendly, and reducing speed limits in areas where pedestrians are frequently present. Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers, pedestrians, and policymakers all have a role to play in making our roads safer for everyone.
References
- “Pedestrian Safety Statistics.” NHTSA. nhtsa.gov/pedestrian-safety/pedestrian-safety-statistics. Accessed 25 Feb. 2023.
- “Pedestrian Deaths in the United States, 2021.” National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety
- “Pedestrian Injuries in the United States, 2021.” National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety
PACE TULSA 