Concerned about pedestrian safety in your community? The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) has released its annual Spotlight on Highway Safetyreport. Based on preliminary data from State Highway Safety Offices (SHSOs), the report analyzes pedestrian traffic fatality trends at both state and national levels for the first half of 2023.
The data analysis, conducted by Westat’s Elizabeth Petraglia, PhD, found that while 30 states saw a decrease, 18 states experienced an increase, highlighting the urgent need for improved pedestrian safety measures. Several factors contribute to this issue, including reduced traffic enforcement, road designs prioritizing fast-moving vehicles, and a lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. As the U.S. vehicle fleet shifts towards larger, heavier vehicles, the risk of severe injuries or fatalities for pedestrians has increased.
Learn more: Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State: January – June 2023 Preliminary Report (PDF)
