Why Are So Many Pedestrians Killed by Cars in the US?

Pedestrian deaths in the US have been on the rise since 2009, with over 7,300 pedestrians killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2023, accounting for about 18% of all motor vehicle deaths that year. This is a stark contrast to the decline in pedestrian deaths seen from 1975 to 2009. The reasons behind this surge in pedestrian fatalities are complex and multifaceted, including factors like distracted driving, increased SUV usage, and inadequate infrastructure for pedestrians. Addressing these issues will be crucial in improving pedestrian safety on US roads.