According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, after three straight years of increases, the number of pedestrians killed in traffic accidents has finally declined.
Compared with the first six months of 2012, fatal pedestrian accidents fell by nearly 9 percent compared to the first six months of 2013. Pedestrian fatality data for all of 2013 is expected to be released later this year.
Overall there were 190 fewer fatalities and the number of states with declining statistics outnumbered the states with increases; Florida and California specifically saw the highest decline.
The decline in numbers is a change from the 15 percent increase that was seen between 2009 and 2012. No one is sure why there was such an increase, however, speculation has been made that the increase in distracted driving may have led to higher pedestrian accidents. As laws banning texting while driving and cellphone use have increased it is likely the number of pedestrian fatalities will begin to decline.
In Tennessee, according to the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, the number of pedestrians involved in accidents actually increased between 2009 and 2013. However, between 2012 and 2013 the number did decline by more than 9 percent.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident caused by a careless driver, contact the Knoxville, TN car accident attorneys at Greg Coleman by filling out the Free Case Evaluation form to your right or calling (865) 247-0080.
