**Pedestrian Fatalities on the Rise: Alarming Statistics Call for Action**
In recent years, the number of pedestrian deaths due to traffic accidents has reached alarming levels, highlighting a growing concern for public safety. According to the study “Dangerous by Design” by Smart Growth America, the year 2022 witnessed a staggering 75 percent increase in pedestrian fatalities since 2010. With 7,522 lives lost, this marks the highest number of pedestrian deaths in the past four decades.
**Increase in Fatalities: A Troubling Trend**
The data collected by Smart Growth America reveals a troubling trend. While pedestrian deaths have only seen a slight decrease three times since 2010, there has been a significant jump from 6,565 fatalities in 2020 to 7,388 fatalities in 2021. Disturbingly, this increase coincides with reports of a rise in traffic-related deaths for drivers.
**Socioeconomic Disparities Amplify the Risks**
The study also reveals that lower-income areas bear the brunt of this escalating crisis. Shockingly, individuals in the lowest median household income brackets face nearly five times the risk of pedestrian fatalities compared to those in higher-income brackets. Households with incomes below $50,000, which constitute only 17 percent of the population, make up 30 percent of all pedestrian deaths.
**Age and Vulnerability: Who is Most at Risk?**
Individuals aged 50 to 64 face the highest risk of being fatally injured in pedestrian accidents. However, it is important to note that older adults over the age of 75 are not far behind. The data suggests that younger individuals are more likely to sustain serious injuries in accidents that might prove fatal for older pedestrians. Surprisingly, the study highlights that very few deaths occur among individuals aged zero to 19.
**Racial Disparities: An Unsettling Reality**
When examining the impact of race and ethnicity, Smart Growth America’s findings reveal unsettling disparities. American Indians and Alaska Natives face the highest risk, with a shocking 6.81 deaths per 100,000 people. Black Americans come second, with a rate of 3.40 deaths per 100,000. The study further uncovers that Indigenous reservations experienced a disproportionately high rate of pedestrian fatalities, with 254 deaths recorded between 2018 and 2022, surpassing the national average.
**Urban Planning: A Key Factor in Pedestrian Safety**
Smart Growth America points out that our streets are primarily designed to prioritize the quick movement of cars, often putting pedestrian safety at risk. However, the study emphasizes that simple and affordable solutions can significantly improve the safety of pedestrians. Only a handful of major metropolitan areas have taken steps to address this issue effectively.
**Success Stories: Cities Making Strides**
Despite the challenges, some cities have made considerable progress in reducing pedestrian deaths through proactive measures. Detroit is one such success story, having witnessed a remarkable 40 percent decrease in pedestrian fatalities since implementing necessary updates. Buffalo also achieved substantial success, with a commendable 50 percent decrease in pedestrian deaths. The city achieved this by focusing on slowing down traffic speeds and promoting greater use of bicycles.
In conclusion, the increasing number of pedestrian fatalities calls for urgent action and a comprehensive approach to improving road safety. The disproportionate impact on lower-income communities, specific age groups, and marginalized racial and ethnic communities highlights the need for targeted interventions. By prioritizing pedestrians and implementing practical solutions, cities have the potential to save lives and create safer streets for everyone.
