A recent study by the Governors Highway Safety Administration has shown pedestrian fatalities increased in 2018 and “pedestrian deaths in the United States are reaching epidemic proportions.” In the past ten years, the incidence of pedestrian deaths has increased by more than 50%.
According to the study most accidents involving pedestrians which are struck and killed by motor vehicles occur after sunset. It is very interesting to note that accidents after nightfall account for about 90% of the increase in pedestrian fatalities noted over the past 10 years. Is this due to better record keeping or behavioral shifts in our population?
In half of the fatal pedestrian accidents either the pedestrian or driver were reported to be impaired by drugs or alcohol.
The troubling fact that pedestrian fatalities increased in 2018 hints at broader measures. While government agencies continue to study the increasing sales of smart phones and Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV) there has been no hard evidence to tie them together. The Governor’s study did suggest a link between cell phone distraction and pedestrian injury and wrongful death. The fact these accidents often occur at night makes it more challenging for witnesses to note driver behavior.
When a pedestrian loses their life in a motor vehicle accident there is a high probability the fatal accident resulted in a wrongful death under Kentucky law. Wrongful death cases can be legally quite complex, and it is important to work with proven trial attorneys with extensive experience in these cases.
HLH is Louisville’s most established personal injury law firm. Founded in 1924, HLH has the resources, legal skill and trial experience necessary to hold those responsible financially accountable for pedestrian injuries or the loss of your beloved family member. We invite you to review the strong recommendations of former clients and contact HLH or call us today at (866) 583-9701 to speak with one of our attorneys personally for a free consultation.