Over 40,000 people die in road traffic collisions every year in the U.S. Sadly, over 1,000 of these deaths occur in the state of Pennsylvania. This number generally rises each year, however, there was a change in 2022.
In 2022, the number of car crash fatalities fell by 4%. Thus, it is accurate to say that traffic fatalities may be on the decline. However, it also isn’t quite that simple.
Pedestrians are at a greater risk
Road traffic collisions may involve more people than those traveling via passenger cars. It is also important to consider trucks, bicycles, motorcycles and pedestrians. For instance, the number of pedestrian fatalities in Pennsylvania has actually seen a sharp rise in recent years. Pedestrian fatalities have increased by a staggering 54% nationally, including a 21% increase in Pennsylvania since 2019.
Distracted driving remains a huge issue
Another cause for concern is distracted driving. Over the years, driving behaviors have changed and technology is playing an increasing role in everyday driving. For instance, cell phones can act as a GPS that directs individuals from A to B. People can play their favorite music albums or podcasts in the car without even touching a button. Nonetheless, technology does have the potential to become a distraction. It takes around 5 seconds to read a text, which means covering a significant distance blindly and potentially causing a crash. There can be a fine balance between technology being helpful and becoming a hindrance.
The total number of traffic fatalities may have decreased in recent years in Pennsylvania, but that doesn’t tell the full story. Thousands of people are still being injured and even killed by negligence, both as they are traveling by vehicles and by alternative forms of transportation. If you have been hurt on the roads, be sure to seek legal guidance and know that you’re not alone.