More pedestrian crashes have been fatal, in part, due to an increase in excessive speeding and reckless driving during the pandemic. Additionally, SUVs and other vehicles have gotten larger, causing pedestrian crash victims to suffer more severe and fatal injuries.
Drivers with newer cars relying too heavily on technical assistive devices may also be a factor. These high-tech devices are useful to help warn drivers about pedestrians and other hazards. However, it is important to point out that they are not foolproof or intended to replace a driver’s duty of care.
Groups Most At Risk for Being Hit By a Car
According to a report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), minority groups are most at risk to be struck by a vehicle, including:
Blacks, Hispanics and Asians
Individuals living in disadvantaged areas
Elderly individuals
Pedestrians walking at night
Many crashes, in fact, almost 75 percent, happen at night. Pedestrians are harder to see, especially if they are wearing non-reflective clothing or walking outside of crossing areas. Pedestrians living or walking through disadvantaged neighborhoods are more at risk due to a lack of sidewalks, crosswalks and streetlights.