Study Ranks Pennsylvania High in Number of Pedestrian Deaths
If you or a loved one were hit by a car in Pittsburgh, contact a pedestrian accident lawyer from Romanow Law Group to review your potential legal options.
Nobody expects to be hurt when they are simply out walking. But a car accident can result in severe and often life-changing injuries for pedestrians. Unfortunately, too many times, pedestrians have lost their lives in these crashes in Pennsylvania.
A new study examined data from 2012 to 2020 to determine how much of a problem pedestrian fatalities have been in different states. Pennsylvania had the ninth-highest number of pedestrian deaths during that period, with 1,426 recorded fatalities.
The study was conducted by experts at RMFW Law in New York, using data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
A serious problem in the Commonwealth
The state recorded a high of 197 deaths in 2018, with an average of 158 pedestrians killed during each year of the period examined.
What causes pedestrian deaths in car accidents? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that:
- In 2019, alcohol was a factor in nearly half of the crashes with a pedestrian fatality.
- Speeding increases the risk of a pedestrian being hit by a vehicle.
- Most pedestrian fatalities happen in urban areas, away from intersections, and at night.
Smart Growth America contends that the roads themselves are a factor in the number of pedestrian deaths on U.S. streets.
“Roadway design has a strong impact on how people drive, often more influential on driver behavior than the posted speed limit,” the organization notes in its report, “Dangerous By Design.” “While speed limit signs may only be posted every few blocks or miles, the road’s design is ever-present, continually providing guidance and visual cues. While there are myriad factors involved in these deaths, our streets are dangerous by design, designed to move many cars quickly at the expense of safety for everyone who uses them.”
Our attorneys are ready to fight for you
The families of loved ones lost to pedestrian accidents suffer greatly. They also face the cost of funeral expenses, final medical costs, and in some cases, the loss of financial support.
Pedestrians who survive may face extensive treatment, including surgery, medication, and physical therapy. Expenses can add up quickly, and victims may wonder how they will pay the bills.
But recovering financial compensation can be complicated. Negligent drivers often deny doing anything wrong. Insurance companies may dispute claims for compensation and will try to pay as little as possible. That’s why you need an experienced Pittsburgh car accident lawyer if a loved one was involved in a pedestrian crash.
Our attorneys know the laws addressing pedestrian accidents in Pennsylvania, including the Wrongful Death Act and Survival Statute. We are familiar with the tactics insurance companies use to try to limit compensation. Our legal team investigates to get the facts and builds strong cases that the insurance company can’t ignore.
Put the Romanow Difference to work for you. We guide clients through the legal process every step of the way and will fight for maximum compensation in your case. Learn what your legal options are and get answers to your questions. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.