NHTSA on Pedestrian Safety in 2024

Pedestrian safety isn’t just an important topic in California. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is working hard to get the word out about keeping pedestrians safe nationwide. Sadly, pedestrians are still one of the most vulnerable roadway user groups. Pedestrians are counting on drivers to share the road safely and avoid distractions behind the wheel. Even while practicing safe walking practices, pedestrians are still at the mercy of the motorists they share the nearby roadways with.  

U.S. Pedestrian Crashes by The Numbers  

  • There were 7,388 pedestrians killed in crashes in the U.S. in 2021.  
  • That accounts for 20 pedestrians a day and 142 pedestrians a week.  
  • On average, a pedestrian was killed every 71 minutes and injured every nine minutes in a crash in 2021.  
  • In 2021, pedestrians accounted for 17 percent of all traffic fatalities on U.S. roads.  
  • Between 2020 and 2021, there was a 12.5 percent increase in pedestrian fatalities.  

How Can Motorists Help?  

Keeping pedestrians safe is everybody’s job, and the most important thing motorists can do to help is to make a commitment to distraction-free driving. Distracted driving puts you and everybody you share the road with at great risk for injury-causing and potentially fatal crashes.  

Thankfully, distracted driving crashes are totally preventable. Put your phone in the backseat, and pay attention to the task at hand. Don’t speed, and be watchful in areas where you might expect pedestrians. Take extra care in parking lots and in residential areas. There could also be children around near school zones and neighborhoods.  

Pedestrian Accidents in San Diego  

When pedestrians are hit by motor vehicles, the results can be devastating, catastrophic or even fatal. Even crashes at relatively low speeds can be extremely dangerous to pedestrians. After a pedestrian accident, it’s important to speak with a Personal Injury lawyer about your case. You may be entitled to compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages and other expenses associated with your injuries.  

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.