Deaths from Pedestrian Collisions Reach 30-Year-High

Last year, pedestrian deaths across the United States reached an all-time high. Over six thousand--in fact, 6,590 pedestrians were killed in collisions with motor vehicles in 2019.

Why do the numbers keep going up, despite improvements in technology that are making cars safer? Possible factors include distractions by both drivers and pedestrians, and continued alcohol and drug impairment by drivers.

An alarming statistic is that nearly half of these pedestrian crash deaths were spread among 5 states--including California. 432 pedestrians were killed last year in California in the first half of the year alone. SUVS caused more pedestrian deaths because they are higher and weigh more. Also, inebriated pedestrians represented a large percentage of pedestrians killed in crashes. In about 1/3 of all pedestrian deaths, the pedestrian had a blood alcohol limit exceeding the limit which would be legal for drivers.

Many pedestrian crash deaths occur at nighttime. Municipalities can help prevent pedestrian crash deaths by installing better lighting at intersections, as well as controlled intersections which allow pedestrians to cross traffic while cars are stopped.

The City of Los Angeles and Los Angeles County rolled out the Vision Zero plan to try and help prevent roadway crashes. You can find out more about this program here.

My office has extensive experience representing pedestrians who were seriously injured in collisions with cars. If you or someone you know was a pedestrian hit by a car in Los Angeles or Southern California, my office is ready to assist, 24/6.