At least 7,508 pedestrians were struck and killed by a vehicle in 2022 according to a recently published report by the Governors Highway Safety Association. This number represents a troubling trend because over the past decade, from 2010 – 2021, pedestrian deaths increased 77 percent, from 4.302 to 7,624. Over this same timeframe other types of traffic fatalities increased by only 25 percent. This is the highest amount of pedestrian deaths since 1981 – a timeframe of 41 years.
The report identified several factors that may be contributing to the increase, which includes more risky driving during the coronavirus pandemic and a lack of awareness and enforcement of laws meant to keep pedestrians safe.
In 2021, most pedestrian deaths happened after dark and on roads where there were no sidewalks. Passenger cars were the striking vehicle in 35 percent of the deaths and SUVs or pickups were the striking vehicle in 40 percent of the deaths.
The Governors Highway Safety Association said that the increase in pedestrian deaths could be stopped by improving infrastructure, lowering driving speeds, and focusing traffic enforcement on people who are speeding or practicing other dangerous driving behaviors such as driving while distracted or impaired.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a pedestrian accident, it is important to find a skilled law firm to manage your claim. The law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner is the longest-standing personal injury firm in Texas, and our attorneys are standing by to assist with your claim. Call us today for your free consultation at 713-222-7211 or toll free at 1-800-870-9584.