NHTSA on National Pedestrian Safety Month 2023

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently publicizing their annual pedestrian safety campaign. Since October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, they’re working with safety advocates throughout the U.S. to raise awareness about the dangers facing pedestrians on roadways in America. Throughout the Month of October, the NHTSA will be running ad campaigns on various outlets, including on social media. Pedestrians are going to be reminded to practice safe walking behaviors, and drivers are going to be urged to share the road safely. 

Pedestrian Crash Facts  

  • In 2021, there were 7,388 pedestrians killed in traffic crashes.  
  • In 2020, there were 6,565 pedestrian fatalities.  
  • Between 2020 and 2021, there was a 12.5 percent increase in pedestrian deaths on U.S. roadways.  
  • The number of pedestrians killed in 2021 was the highest number since 1981, when there were 7,837 pedestrians killed in crashes.  
  • In 2021, 60,577 pedestrians were injured in crashes, and that was an 11-percent increase from 2020.  
  • On average in 2021, a pedestrian was killed every 71 minutes and injured every nine minutes.  

Pedestrians Are Counting on Drivers 

Pedestrians are one of the most vulnerable roadway user groups. They don’t even have the added protection of the helmets that cyclists often wear. Even with safe walking practices, pedestrians are truly at the mercy of the drivers they share the roadways with. Distracted driving in particular, has become a dangerous epidemic on U.S. roadways, and distracted drivers are especially dangerous around pedestrians.  

Pedestrian Accidents in Southern California  

After any kind of pedestrian accident, it’s a good idea to speak with a Personal Injury lawyer, because you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. From medical bills and lost wages, the expenses can really add up quickly. A lawyer can fight to get you the compensation you deserve after a pedestrian accident. 

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.