In a world with ever-advancing technology, it’s easy to assume that everything is safer than it used to be. Unfortunately, as a recent study shows, that’s not the case for pedestrians on roadways throughout Texas and the rest of the United States.
Concerning data
The Governors Highway Safety Association looks over data concerning pedestrian deaths. This association recently discovered that pedestrian deaths have reached a 40-year high. There are now about 20 pedestrian deaths each day in the United States.
With advancements in vehicle technology, it stands to reason that roads would be safer for pedestrians. However, one of the causes of the statistics is a rise in sales of sport-utility vehicles. These spacious automobiles are also larger and heavier than smaller sedans, and crashes that involve SUVs and pedestrians tend to end in more pedestrian deaths.
Another major cause of pedestrian deaths involves the U.S. infrastructure problems. Dwindling budgets combined with delayed construction projects have many roadways in disrepair. Besides contributing to an increase in motor vehicle accidents, infrastructure problems can also harm pedestrians in bridge collapses or similar disasters.
Southern states remain notably dangerous
Researchers and other experts are still determining why several southern states like New Mexico and Florida have the most pedestrian deaths per year. Unfortunately, there’s no officially accepted research looking at why these states are so dangerous.
Some believe the higher outdoor temperatures in Southern states could lead to more pedestrians being outdoors, leading to more pedestrian accidents. Another thought is that towns in Southern states, like Texas, are very spread out, and this requires more people to drive themselves.
Lawmakers, researchers and others must work together to make roads safer for pedestrians. A few ideas include making necessary road repairs, placing more red light cameras throughout the U.S. and lowering speed limits.