Pedestrians need to be careful in Tennessee and throughout the country as the number of pedestrian accidents is rising. Many are fatal, too. Nationwide, the number of pedestrian fatalities has been climbing since 2009. The Governors Highway Safety Administration has made a preliminary analysis of traffic deaths in 2019 and found that things have not improved.
Pedestrian Deaths at Their Highest since 1988
The GHSA estimates that in 2019, there were 6,590 pedestrian deaths in all. Since the report only had six months’ worth of data to go on, the estimate may be inaccurate. If it is, though, it represents a 5% increase from 2018 and a 60% increase from the 4,109 pedestrian deaths seen in 2009. This is also the highest the number has been since 1988.
California, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, and Florida accounted for 47% of the fatalities. Incidentally, about one-third of the U.S. population is centered in these five states. Florida, New Mexico, and Hawaii had the highest rates of pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 people. Three states with the lowest rates were Vermont, Wisconsin, and Idaho.
The GHSA Gives Reasons for the Trend
Compared to the 60% increase between 2009 and 2019, all other traffic deaths rose 2% from 2009 to 2018. The GHSA report provides several explanations for this phenomenon. More drivers and pedestrians are on the roads due to warmer weather, and new technologies are becoming potent sources of distraction for drivers.
A third reason is that SUVs and light trucks are becoming more popular. They comprised 69% of new vehicle sales in 2019 as opposed to 48% in 2009. By the very way they are designed, these vehicles are deadlier than ordinary cars can be to pedestrians.
Legal Representation for Complex Cases
Whether straightforward or complex, cases involving pedestrian accidents may benefit from legal representation. You may do well to find a lawyer who gives your case personal attention and has your well-being in mind. The lawyer may prepare the case for you and handle all negotiations with the driver’s insurance company, hopefully achieving a settlement in the end.