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Pedestrian safety is improving in the United States, with an estimated 5.4% decrease in pedestrian deaths in 2023, marking the first decline in this statistic since the onset of COVID-19, according to a report by the Governors Highway Safety Association. Despite this, the number of pedestrian fatalities in 2023 was still higher than pre-pandemic levels, with 7,318 deaths reported. Connecticut did much better than the national percentage, with a 34% decrease, dropping from 73 in 2022 to 48 deaths in 2023.
Safety measures are working
This report suggests that new safety initiatives are making pedestrians safer. Measures implemented within the past few years include lower speed limits, more sidewalks being constructed, and improved lighting in pedestrian areas. A layered approach, which combines multiple methods, is key to preventing deaths.
Construction projects have improved roadway safety, and law enforcement is implementing new and innovative enforcement programs. Vehicle technology has also helped to prevent collisions with pedestrians. In the report, California, which experienced the largest decrease in pedestrian deaths (from 1,208 to 1,057 deaths), was praised for statewide collaboration with local governments to improve safety.
There is still work to do
The report’s findings could indicate a new trend in pedestrian safety as these initiatives continue to roll out nationwide. However, the goal of ending traffic deaths, as the Vision Zero initiative highlighted, remains an elusive target. Moreover, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that many pedestrian deaths in 2023 occurred at night in areas without sidewalks, with SUVs and other large vehicles most likely to be involved. These factors have become common in recent years, underscoring the importance of ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian safety.
Pedestrian injuries and deaths may deserve compensation
If you were injured as a pedestrian and believe someone else was at fault, or if your family member was killed in a pedestrian accident due to negligence, you may consider legal action.
