Data from 2011 reveals that pedestrian fatalities have increased while total traffic fatalities decreased.  Pedestrian fatalities accounted for 14% of total traffic fatalities in 2011.  The numbers of pedestrian fatalities reached its highest since 2007.

Who is a pedestrian?

For the purposes of this study conducted by the US Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a pedestrian is any person on foot, walking, running, jogging, hiking, sitting or lying down who is involved in a motor vehicle traffic crash.  Pedestrians were considered involved in a traffic fatality if the crash originated on a public traffic way, but not if the crash originated on private property, such as a driveway or parking lot.

When were pedestrians involved in traffic crashes?

Surprisingly, a significant majority of the pedestrians killed in crashes occurred when it was clear or cloudy (88%) as opposed to rain, snow or fog (11%).  In addition, approximately three-quarters of those pedestrians who were fatally injured were involved in urban events.  And, not so surprisingly, 70% of the fatal crashes occurred during the evening hours (defined as 6:00 pm until 6:00 am).

Who is most likely to be injured as a pedestrian?

Older pedestrians (65+) accounted for 19% of the pedestrian fatalities in 2011.  In addition, children 15 and younger accounted for 6% of all pedestrian fatalities in 2011.  And, more than two-thirds of the pedestrians killed in 2011 were male.  The male pedestrian fatality rate was more than double that for females.  In addition, of the pedestrians who were killed in fatal crashes, 37% had a blood alcohol level of  .08 or higher.

 What can you do as a pedestrian to stay safe?