US pedestrian fatalities at highest since 1981 Kiplinger.
US pedestrian fatalities at highest since 1981 Kiplinger.
Rise in Pedestrian and Bicyclist Fatalities on U.S. Roads
Road safety goes beyond the responsibility of drivers and passengers in vehicles. In recent years, the alarming increase in pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities on U.S. roads has become a concerning trend. A new report by the Governors Highway Safety Association reveals that the number of pedestrians killed in traffic accidents reached its highest level in 2021, surpassing numbers not seen since 1981.
Rising Pedestrian Fatalities
Last year, drivers struck and killed over 7,500 pedestrians, a troubling statistic that reflects a 77% increase in pedestrian deaths between 2010 and 2021. This sharp rise is particularly noteworthy when compared to the 25% increase in all other traffic fatalities during the same period. The report highlights that the majority of pedestrian fatalities occur at night on non-freeway arterial roads, known for their high-speed traffic.
One major contributing factor to this increase in pedestrian fatalities is the growing popularity of larger vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks. The report attributes the reduced chances of pedestrian survival when hit by these larger vehicles as a significant concern. Crashes involving SUVs in the past decade have seen a staggering 120% increase in pedestrian deaths, compared to a 26% increase in crashes involving smaller passenger cars. It is essential to consider the impact of an aging fleet of vehicles, as newer models are generally equipped with improved safety features.
Dangers for Bicyclists
Bicyclists are also facing increased risks on U.S. roads. Federal statistics reveal a worrying trend of rising fatalities among bicyclists. In 2021 alone, 966 bicyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents, a significant increase compared to the 600 to 700 fatalities recorded in the early 2010s.
Unfortunately, experts predict that these fatalities are likely to continue rising, partly due to the prevalence of larger trucks and SUVs on the roads. These vehicles pose a higher risk to bicyclists in the event of a crash, emphasizing the need for greater caution and awareness.
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A Glimpse into the Future
The forecast for road safety in the coming years remains concerning. The dominance of larger trucks and SUVs, alongside the inherent dangers they pose during pedestrian and bicyclist accidents, suggests that the trend of increasing fatalities will persist.
To stay informed and keep track of the latest developments in road safety and other areas, experts recommend subscribing to The Kiplinger Letter. This venerable publication has provided concise weekly forecasts on business and economic trends since 1923. Its experienced team of writers provides valuable insights and predictions, helping readers make informed decisions about their investments and money.
In conclusion, the rising number of pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities on U.S. roads demands urgent attention. Understanding the contributing factors, such as the popularity of larger vehicles and the need for improved vehicle safety features, is crucial in developing effective measures to prevent further tragedies. It is a collective responsibility to create safer roads for everyone, whether on foot or cycling.
