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Pedestrian risks increase in Colorado and U.S.

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Whether out for a jog, walking the dog or crossing a street to get to an intended destination, pedestrians today may face greater risks than in the past.

One factor contributing to the dangers people on foot experience today may well be consumer’s preference for large vehicles like SUVs.

Pedestrian dangers may increase with vehicle size

According to Car and Driver magazine, pedestrians hit by SUVs or other tall vehicles may experience more serious outcomes than pedestrians hit by smaller vehicles. Impacts from taller vehicles centers around the torso where vital organs are housed. SUV crashes may also result in impacts to heads. When hit by shorter vehicles, pedestrians experience more impact to their feet, legs or hips.

Data shows big jump in U.S. pedestrian deaths

Between 2009 and 2018, pedestrian fatalities across the United States spiked a whopping 52% according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. Preliminary data for 2019 indicates a 60% jump in foot traffic deaths between 2009 and 2019.

Colorado sees increase in pedestrian fatalities

Records from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate that pedestrians comprised one in 10 vehicular fatalities in Colorado in 2009. That year, the state recorded a total of 47 pedestrian deaths. In 2014, 63 people on foot were killed in Colorado. That declined slightly to 59 the following year only to increase each of the subsequent three years first to 57 in 2016 and then to 92 and 89 in 2017 and 2018, respectively.

In both 2017 and 2018, more than 14% of the people killed in automobile accidents across the state were pedestrians.

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