Why Did Pedestrian Fatalities Increase in 2015?

Monday, August 29, 2016

Why Did Pedestrian Fatalities Increase in 2015?

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Reports released earlier this year by the Governors Highway Safety Association has brought up an alarming number of issues regarding pedestrian fatalities. In 2015, it was a horrific year for pedestrians – with fatal car and truck accidents increasing in the first nine months. The official report stated that the number of pedestrian deaths in 2015 rose by 10 percent.

Why the Increase?

The report released did indicate a number of factors that may have led to the increase. These included:

• Distracted driving
• Distracted pedestrians
• Warmer temperatures (meaning more pedestrians on the roads)
• Drop in gas prices (leading to more cars on the road)

Pedestrian safety is a growing concern in the state, as well as in the country. With the increase in fatalities for 2015, deadly car accidents have been on a decline. Pedestrian deaths, however, have seen a steady increase since 2005, and the estimated increase for 2014-2015 is the largest year-over-year increase since 1975.

In the report, it was found that the first half of 2015 witnessed 2,368 pedestrian deaths. This means that pedestrian deaths accounted for 15 percent of the total number of traffic-related fatalities during that period alone. This is the highest percentage of deaths reported, and over the past five years, the second half of the year has seen an increase of 25 percent more pedestrian deaths than the first half.

What if You Are an Injured Pedestrian?

If you have been injured in an accident with a motor vehicle or truck, you could be entitled to compensation under the law. Pedestrian-vehicle accidents are often much more tragic – and the injuries alone are extensive. Those involved in pedestrian-vehicle accidents will have long-term injuries (if the injuries are not fatal), which often include multiple surgeries, disability, physical therapy, and unimaginable amounts of long-term pain.

After an accident with a vehicle, it is in your best interest to contact a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help identify which course is best to take in order to maximize your compensation. A successful claim could yield compensation for financial costs like:

• Medical costs
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Long-term disability
• Inability to work in the future
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death (including funeral and/or burial costs)

Contact a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident as a pedestrian, contact Malman Law to explore your options. Our attorneys are available for a consultation 24 hours per day. Call us today, or ask a legal question online.