Why Are So Many More Pedestrians Dying in the U.S.?

This podcast episode explores the multifaceted factors contributing to the alarming surge in pedestrian fatalities in the United States since 2009. It delves into the impact of distracted driving due to smartphones, the influence of larger and heavier vehicles, and the exposure theories that suggest changing situations may put pedestrians at higher risk. The rise in fatalities is linked to the migration to sunbelt states, suburbanization of poverty, and the interplay between transportation infrastructure and traffic fatalities. The episode emphasizes the need for a cultural shift prioritizing pedestrian safety and systemic changes to road design and policies. Takeaways • The rise in pedestrian fatalities in the US is a pressing issue that requires comprehensive solutions. • Smartphone use and distracted driving are significant contributors to the increase in traffic fatalities. • The design of American cars, with their larger size and lower hoods, increases the risk of severe injuries and fatalities for pedestrians. • Exposure theories suggest that changes in the country's demographics, infrastructure, and lifestyle may have led to more pedestrians being exposed to dangerous situations. • The suburbanization of poverty and the lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in suburban areas contribute to the rise in fatalities. • The unique transportation system in the US, prioritizing speed over pedestrian safety, exacerbates the problem of traffic fatalities. • A cultural shift is necessary, prioritizing pedestrian safety, investing in safer road designs, imposing stricter penalties for traffic violations, and educating drivers about responsible driving behaviors.