Over the last decade, the number of Americans killed while walking increased by 35%, and 2016 was the deadliest year for pedestrians since 1990. According to the “Pedestrian Danger Index,” created by Smart Growth America and the National Complete Streets Coalition, Texas is ranked as the eighth most dangerous state for pedestrians. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that there were 619 pedestrian fatalities in Texas during 2018.
Experts can’t agree upon any central reason for the rise in pedestrian fatalities but will typically lay blame at the feet of distracted driving, larger vehicles, and more people walking and running in Texas’ growing urban areas. The Texas Transportation Department plans to dedicate $600,000,000.00, in addition to federal funds, to widen roads, add rumble strips along more center lines and shoulders, add and reinforce shoulders, add select turn lanes, and to implement technological improvements to make roadways safer.
All too often, we see drivers on the road who are clearly distracted. If you or someone you know has been struck by a vehicle while walking, contact an experienced attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling (713) 222-7211 or toll free at 713-222-7211.