According to statistics recently released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Authority (NHTSA), pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities rose by approximately 60% between 2011 and 2022. This rise in fatalities has occurred despite innovations intended to make motor vehicles safer overall, which has been demonstrated in government test data. At least some of the blame has been placed on an increased number of SUVs, trucks, and other large vehicles on the road, increasing the lethality of these accidents.

What Do the Statistics Say?

Between 2011 and 2022, the number of pedestrians and bicyclists killed in motor vehicle accidents increased by 60%. While the number of fatal auto accidents increased overall during that time, it was pedestrians and bicyclists who saw the most severe increase. This is despite government test data showing that vehicles overall have become safer over the same period of time.

Why is This Happening?

While the exact reason for this increase in pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities is not clear, there are a few factors that may contribute to the problem. For example, large vehicles like SUVs, vans and trucks have become more popular, which cause more severe injuries and have a higher chance of causing fatalities when they are involved in pedestrian and bicycle accidents. These vehicles also tend to have larger blind spots compared to sedans or other smaller vehicles, meaning they are more likely to not see a pedestrian or bicyclist until it is too late to avoid an accident.

What Can Be Done to Address the Problem?

One potential way of dealing with the problem is to redesign safety standards to accommodate things that can make accidents less dangerous for pedestrians and bicyclists. Analysts have pointed to the fact that government safety data only includes the potential danger to those in the vehicle, not those outside it, meaning they may have underestimated the danger these vehicles pose to unprotected pedestrians and bicyclists. They are also looking at ways to improve visibility for these larger vehicles, making accidents less likely.

What Should You Do if You Are in a Pedestrian or Bicycle Accident?

If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, you may be able to seek compensation for the harm you have suffered. However, to be able to take advantage of this fact, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling auto accidents and other similar issues. The sooner you call, the sooner they can get to work on your case.

If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.