"U.S. pedestrian deaths rose in 2019 to their highest level in 30 years, even as the nation’s roadway crash fatalities overall have been falling, according to a new report.
An estimated 6,590 pedestrians were killed in motor-vehicle crashes last year, a nearly 5% increase from the 6,283 deaths in 2018, according to the report released Thursday by the Governors Highway Safety Association, a nonprofit that represents state highway-safety offices.
Possible factors for the increase include smartphone-related distraction by drivers and pedestrians; inadequate roadway lighting and crossing mechanisms; the large number of SUVs; and alcohol or other drug impairment by both drivers and pedestrians. But pinpointing exact reasons why is difficult, Mr. Retting said."
America heading in the wrong direction? (6590 for such a large population still seems pretty good though, to be honest)
US traffic-related deaths are at the same level with countries like Slovakia and Poland (14 deaths per 100,000 vehicles) and Turkey and Egypt if you compare deaths per capita (12 deaths per 100,000). US traffic is a wild west compared to many European countries, especially during the winter when people drive without winter tires.
The safer, higher quality cars in the US should lower the deaths/100,000 vehicles number. Getting hit by an Escalade while in a new Nissan is much safer that being in a Lada and being hit by a Lada. Those things are basically made out of cardboard and glue.
In US, statistically, you’re safe in big cars like SUVs, minivans and trucks. The time you die, with like multiple times the rate, is when you’re in a smaller car and the Ford F150 hits you. So, if you are in a society with 50% SUVs and 50% cars, it’s worse than a world with 10% SUVs and 90% cars.