Pedestrian fatalities up by over 80% within last 15 years, study finds

JACKSON, Tenn. — New research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals a concerning trend in pedestrian fatalities.

According to new research, pedestrian deaths have risen by over 80% in the past 15 years.

With almost the entire increase occurring after dark on urban arterial roads. These roads can have lots of traffic, multiple lanes, fewer stop points and access to key areas.

AAA spokesperson, Megan Cooper, shares more about their research findings.

“But a lot of times when people think of pedestrian fatalities, they think of pedestrians that are hit in downtown areas and large cities, but this research highlights that a lot of those increases are actually happening outside of those cities and areas where we typically would not expect to see pedestrian traffic,” said Cooper.

The research also provides a few measures to reduce fatalities.

“This research also highlights that there’s a lot of work to be done to help keep pedestrians safe in our local communities, and it’s really going to take that effort, you know, state, local leaders, the community itself really making that push to make our roads safer for both pedestrians and for vehicle traffic,” said Cooper.

And there’s also steps pedestrians can take to minimize the risk.

“The big thing is making sure that you are visible, so make sure that you’re wearing bright clothing, reflective clothing. If possible, stay in those well lit areas. Also, try to use sidewalks and crosswalks as often as you possibly can. If there’s no sidewalk available to you where you are walking, make sure that you’re walking facing traffic,” said Cooper.

Remember to drive with extra caution at night and minimize risky driving behaviors.

For more local traffic stories, click here.