Introduction
The surge in pedestrian deaths on American roads in recent years is nothing short of a crisis. With thousands of lives lost each year, the question of why these fatalities are rising despite advancements in technology remains unanswered. The impact of Covid-19 on high-risk behavior, distracted driving, and the growing size of vehicles all contribute to the deadly trend. In this article, we will explore the factors driving the increase in pedestrian fatalities and the efforts being made to address this pressing issue.
**Covid And The Falling American Lifespan**
The pandemic has had a significant impact on pedestrian fatalities, with a surge in deaths of despair contributing to higher rates of impaired driving and ultimately, more fatalities. Speed and distracted driving also play a role in the likelihood of fatal pedestrian impacts, with higher speeds and increased cell phone usage while driving leading to more deaths. These trends have only been exacerbated by Covid-19, accelerating existing problems in pedestrian safety.
**A Few Straightforward Tests**
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has been conducting tests to determine the efficacy of headlights and pedestrian-monitoring systems in reducing pedestrian fatalities. The results have shown that improvements in these areas can lead to a decrease in nighttime single-vehicle crash rates and increase the chances of avoiding pedestrian impacts. The IIHS has been working closely with automakers to ensure that vehicles perform well in both day and night conditions, incentivizing safety features that mitigate harm in the event of a crash.
**Our Cars Are Too Big**
One major factor contributing to the rise in pedestrian fatalities is the size of vehicles on American roads. Studies have shown that light trucks and SUVs are more likely to cause fatal pedestrian impacts due to their larger blind spots and taller front ends. The design of modern trucks has also been implicated in the increased deaths of children in low-speed accidents. The IIHS’s research on vehicle design highlights the importance of hood height in pedestrian safety, with taller hoods correlating to higher risks of death.
**You Can Test For That!**
Countries like Europe have already implemented pedestrian impact safety standards in vehicle testing, leading to safer cars for pedestrians. The incorporation of these standards into the US market could make a significant impact on reducing pedestrian fatalities. By penalizing manufacturers for designs that prioritize aggressive styling and poor visibility, the number of pedestrian deaths caused by vehicle impacts could be significantly reduced.
**Conclusion**
The rising number of pedestrian fatalities on American roads is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. From the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic to the size and design of vehicles, efforts are being made to address the crisis and improve pedestrian safety. By implementing stricter testing guidelines for vehicle safety features and incentivizing pedestrian-friendly design, we can work towards a future where pedestrians are no longer at risk on our roadways.