This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
California pedestrian deaths projected to jump 12 percent
FILE: Preliminary projections suggest 2015 may have been the deadliest for pedestrian deaths as an improving economy and lower gas prices contribute to more driving, a new study reports.
(
Michael Kang via Flickr
)
Listen
0:55
California pedestrian deaths projected to jump 12 percent
Last year could prove to be one of the deadliest years in two decades for pedestrians countrywide, according to a new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association, a national coalition of state highway safety agencies.
Based on preliminary numbers for the first half of 2015, the group projects a 10 percent jump nationwide in walking fatalities, the largest year-over-year increase on record.
"The fact that we’re moving in the wrong direction, and in a significant way, is very concerning," said Richard Retting, one of the report's authors.
The group calculated its full-year projection based on preliminary numbers through June and estimated a typical increase of 25 percent in reported fatalities during the second half of the year, taking into account seasonal weather conditions leading to more walking.
Researchers believe an uptick in driving last year due to the improving economy and low gas prices could be to blame for the increase in deaths. The number of people walking may also be growing as metropolitan areas improve walkability and encourage more physical activity for health and environmental reasons.
While California was not among the states with the highest rate of pedestrian deaths per capita, the data suggests the state's fatalities could jump by as much as 12 percent over 2014. California recorded the highest number of deaths among the states at 347 through June.
"When you have the highest number of pedestrian deaths, you have the biggest opportunity to do something about it," said Retting.
Sponsored message
Several California cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego, have begun ambitious programs to eliminate pedestrian deaths and improve road safety as part of an international Vision Zero initiative.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
