More pedestrians are losing their lives to car accidents in Louisiana and other states. Ironically, the rise in pedestrian deaths happens when numbers for traffic fatalities as a whole are on the decline. And some cities have shown they are more dangerous for pedestrians than others.
Louisiana pedestrian fatalities
One hundred and twenty-two pedestrians in Louisiana lost their lives after becoming involved in an accident in 2019. There were also 1,398 injuries reported from this type of accident.
These numbers represent an upward trend in the state for deaths caused by pedestrian accidents observed for nearly two decades. A study released by the Center for Planning Excellence showed that 93 pedestrians died on Louisiana roads in 2003. By 2012, this number had climbed to 120 deaths and represented 16% of all traffic fatalities in the state.
The New Orleans metropolitan area ranked first with 270 total pedestrian deaths over the ten years. The Baton Rouge metro area placed second at 163 pedestrian fatalities.
The Lafayette and Shreveport areas commanded the next two spots. These cities tallied 74 and 71 fatalities, respectively.
Nationwide
The Governors Highway Safety Association released the results of a 10-year observation of pedestrian fatalities in 2019. The study observed the years from 2009 to 2018. The percentage of traffic deaths involving a pedestrian grew from 12% to 17% over this period.
New Mexico leads the way with the highest rate for pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents at 2.24. Hawaii is next at 1.77, and Florida is third at 1.72. Louisiana comes in at sixth on the list at 1.38 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents.
The first six cities listed on the Pedestrian Danger Index are all in Florida. Orlando, Jacksonville, and Daytona Beach are among this group.
The first city on the list not in Florida is Bakersfield, California. The first Louisiana city to receive a mention on the national Pedestrian Danger Index is Baton Rouge at number 12.
Roads in Lousiana are growing more dangerous for pedestrians. Individuals injured by a car while walking may benefit from a conversation with a personal injury attorney.
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