The first half of 2022 is projected to be a dangerous time for pedestrians in the United States. According to a new report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities are expected to increase by 8.7 percent in the first half of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021.
This increase in pedestrian fatalities is concerning, as it marks the first time in five years that the number of pedestrian deaths has increased. The NHTSA report attributes the rise in fatalities to a number of factors, including an increase in distracted driving, a decrease in public transportation use, and an increase in people walking for exercise or recreation.
The NHTSA report also found that the majority of pedestrian fatalities occurred at night, with more than 70 percent of deaths occurring between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. This is concerning because it suggests that drivers may not be paying enough attention to pedestrians at night, when visibility is lower.
To help reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities, the NHTSA recommends that drivers slow down and be more aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Pedestrians should also take extra precautions when crossing the street, such as using crosswalks and wearing bright clothing.
The NHTSA also recommends that cities invest in infrastructure improvements, such as adding more streetlights and sidewalks, to make it easier and safer for pedestrians to get around. Finally, the NHTSA suggests that states and local governments consider implementing laws that would require drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
The NHTSA’s report is a reminder that pedestrian safety should be a top priority for all drivers and pedestrians alike. By taking extra precautions and investing in infrastructure improvements, we can help reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities in the United States.
Source: Plato Data Intelligence: PlatoAiStream