This month, we’re highlighting the alarming increase in pedestrian fatalities that have plagued the United States over the past two decades. Last week, we examined some of the tragic statistics that have steadily increased the mortality rate of pedestrian crashes, especially in the past five years. 

With over 6,000 people killed last year, there’s an epidemic in the country, and like most sweeping issues, it affects the most vulnerable among us the most. First, it’s important to remember that we are all pedestrians. If you walk on the sidewalk, cross the street, even walk through a parking lot, you facing the risk associated with being a human in the midst of an environment designed for cars. Poor infrastructure, impaired or distracted driving, lack of lighting and myriad other factors that increase fatalities are the result of crafting our streets and transportation for vehicles instead of people. 

While we’re all pedestrians, there are some Americans more at risk. Not everyone has the same access to transportation, and we often forget just how costly automobile ownership is. We take it for granted; individuals and families own one or more cars as a way to get to work, get to school, shop, and run daily errands. We take the associated costs in stride, often without too close of examination. There are millions of Americans who can’t afford the insurance, fuel, and maintenance price tag that goes hand-in-hand with car ownership, let alone the price or purchasing a new or used vehicle. 

One of the demographics that fits this description is also one of the most-hard hit in pedestrian fatalities. Seniors on a fixed income, restricted driving, and other risk factors are more likely to walk, and they’re also dramatically more likely to be killed. Adults over the age of 65 account for 20% of pedestrian fatalities each year. As a whole, they make approximately 15% of all reported injuries. 

Children face different risk factors, but an eerily similar fatality rate. Children under the age of 15 make up 20% of pedestrians killed per year. Their risk factors result from a lack of access to cars; they’re more likely to walk to school due to school zoning regulations and the decline of busing. They’re also more likely to use the streets and sidewalks as places to play, especially in communities that lack open spaces like parks and playgrounds. 

Finally, the biggest demographic isn’t a victim, but the cause. It should be no surprise that alcohol plays a determining factor in many pedestrian fatalities. Alcohol is responsible for 48% of crashes involving pedestrians each and every year in the United States, whether the drunken party is the pedestrian or driver. 33% of pedestrians killed have a blood alcohol level of at least .08%, while 13% of those incidents are the result of a driver with at least the same amount of alcohol in their system. 

There are a number of other factors that greatly increase the risk posed to pedestrians. Darkness is often another important contributing factor, as well as a lack of reflective clothing, lighting, or other visibility-enhancing tools whether on the pedestrian or built into the streetscape. The availability of sidewalks, crosswalks, and awareness of both pedestrian and driver are intense topics of community advocates, and something that every city needs to incorporate into future plans. 

You can be a part of fighting the rise of pedestrian deaths by being informed and being safe. Follow the best practices as provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, and take time to talk about pedestrian safety with your friends and family. 

1. Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.

2. Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.

3. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.

4. Keep alert at all times; don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.

5. Whenever possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.

6. If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.

7. Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen.

8. Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.

9. Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.

10. Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.