Since 2010, the number of pedestrian deaths has been going up. This is because of unsafe infrastructure and the high number of SUVs, which are more dangerous for walkers than smaller cars. When the pandemic hit, there was an even bigger rise because faster speeds and more careless driving took over the empty roads.
The group that keeps track of pedestrian deaths in the U.S. says that more than 7,500 people were killed by cars last year, which is the most since 1981. Oklahoma wasn't able to give numbers because of a technical problem, so the final count may be even higher.
A study based on data from the state government says that the number of pedestrians killed by cars in 2022 was the highest it had been since 1981.
The results for 2022 showed that pedestrian deaths in the US have increased over the previous ten years, as did an accompanying examination of federal government data from 2021.
According to official data, pedestrian deaths increased by 77%, from 4,302 to 7,624, between 2010 and 2021. During the same time frame, there was a 25% rise in other categories of road fatalities.
10 Things You Need to Control While Driving
Automobiles are incredible machines. They offer comfort and independence in transportation. People lose their lives in car accidents every day. Human mistake is the main cause of traffic accidents. Numerous people pass away as a result of inexperience, speeding when intoxicated from drugs or alcohol, or just simple carelessness. Reducing the likelihood of accidents can be achieved by reining in the following lack of discipline:
1. UNTRAINED DRIVING
A basic rider course or advanced race track instruction is recommended for new drivers. It may be cheaper than expected. Safety gear can make riding more comfortable, improve vehicle control, and make you more visible to other drivers.
2. OVERSPEEDING
Speed is the leading cause of road deaths. Speeding causes a lot of traffic crash deaths and injuries.
3. BUZZED DRIVING
Drunk driving is dangerous, but too many people drive with alcohol in their veins, compromising judgment and reaction time. Drinking and driving is deadly.
4. TAILGATING
This may be the most serious offense. Some drivers are impatient and follow traffic without thinking, getting close but backing off when they speed. These drivers are the most dangerous because they tailgate intentionally.
5. DISTRACTED DRIVING
As the tagline states, hang up and drive. Please don't text. Many states make it unlawful to drive with a hand-held phone, although all states discourage it.
6. TRAFFIC VOILATIONS
Double-check that no one is speeding through a yellow signal. Use cautious when passing semis. Drive carefully near an 18-wheeler. The truck driver cannot see you without side mirrors.
7. RASH & NEGLIGENCE
Watch for blind areas. Before turning right at a junction, check both directions twice. Pull into busy intersections with caution since vehicles can come suddenly.
8. OVERTAKING
Overtaking invites accidents. In residential areas with low speed limits, slow down by at least 5 mph. This will give you time to halt if a ghost or X-Men character dashes onto the street.
9. NO LANE DRIVING
Stay in your lane. When you need to leave a lane or underground parking lot, you might not be able to tell if someone is ready to cross the street in front of you. Stay in your lane and slowly move forward until you are sure it is safe to do so.
10. UNROADWORTHY VEHICLES
Knowing that your car is in good shape makes you feel better because you know you're less likely to break down. Make sure that your car has the right insurance and registration papers. It's important to pay attention to the gas/diesel, oil, water, seat belt, brakes, and air pressure.
Despite their frequent occurrence, accident rates are the least desirable thing that may happen to a road user. The fact that we fail to learn from our mistakes while driving is the most regrettable thing. The majority of drivers are quite aware of the general guidelines and precautions to follow when operating a vehicle, but it is drivers' negligence that leads to collisions and accidents. Human mistake is the primary cause of accidents and crashes.
REFERENCES:
https://www.shriramgi.com/article/10-ways-to-avoid-road-accidents
https://www.vitronic.com/en-us/blog/smart-mobility/road-safety-pays-off?
https://www.supaquick.com/five-practices-that-will-help-you-to-avoid-causing-a-road-accident
