In a study conducted by the Governors Highway Safety Association, Texas was one of five states accounting for 47% of national pedestrian deaths in the first half of 2019. Those five states, though sizable, comprise only 33% of the national population, meaning that Texas most likely has a disproportionate number of pedestrian deaths.
From 2009 through the first half of 2019, pedestrian fatalities consistently increased: The difference between 2018 and 2009 was 53%. Over the same period of time, fatalities for all non-pedestrian traffic deaths have increased just 2%. These figures are in contrast to a 25% decrease in deaths of vehicle passengers between 1975 and 2018, which may be attributable to improved vehicle safety measures.
There are multiple reasons that could explain why pedestrian accidents are on the rise. As most people are aware, the prevalence of drivers texting on their cellphones has hardly been mitigated by laws against it. A less commonly known factor that could lead to accidents is the increase in popularity of large SUVs, which result in pedestrian fatalities twice as often as non-SUV accidents. SUVs and light trucks made up 69% of all car sales in 2018 as compared to 48% in 2009.
Besides the fact that the majority of new vehicles on the road pose a heightened risk to other drivers and pedestrians, Texas drivers may behave negligently behind the wheel. If an individual is injured in a car accident, either as a pedestrian or as the driver or passenger in another vehicle, it may be a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney about pursuing compensation for medical bills and other damages.
