A new study analyzed fatal nighttime pedestrian fatality data from 2019 to 2023, sourced from the Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Calculating the average number of pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents in each state to reveal the regions in America with the highest risks for night-time pedestrian fatalities.
Walking for Health
Walking has become a popular way to get in some physical activity because you don’t need any special equipment, and you can do it just about anywhere. Walking offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. Walking helps improve cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, helps manage weight, can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and studies suggest it can help to slow down biological aging. Additionally, walking can boost mood, improve sleep, and enhance cognitive function.
- Cardiovascular Health: Walking is a great way to improve heart health. It can lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve circulation, all of which contribute to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Musculoskeletal Health: Walking strengthens muscles, particularly in the legs and core, and improves bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. It’s a low-impact exercise that can also help protect joints from arthritis.
- Weight Management: Walking can help burn calories and manage weight. A brisk walk can be a great way to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine and contribute to weight loss or maintenance.
- Mental Health: Walking has a positive impact on mental well-being. It can reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. It can also improve mood, boost energy levels, and promote better sleep.
- Cognitive Function: Walking has been linked to improved cognitive function, including better memory and reduced risk of dementia.
- Other Benefits: Walking can also lower the risk of certain cancers, improve insulin sensitivity, and enhance overall quality of life. If you go for a stroll in nature, the benefits increase even more so for stress reduction and mental clarity.
However, if you live in one of these ten states, you may want to take some extra safety precautions before venturing outside to walk, as a new study has revealed some of the most dangerous regions for pedestrian traffic.
Top 10 States With the Deadliest Roads for Pedestrians After Dark
This recent study analyzed night-time pedestrian fatality data from 2019 to 2023, sourced from FARS, to calculate the average number of night-time pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents in each state, and identified where pedestrians face the greatest risk after dark.
Quick Highlights
New Mexico ranks first, with 3.66 average nighttime pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 residents, more than 2.5 times higher than the national average of 1.43. The Land of Enchantment recorded an average of 77.2 nighttime pedestrian fatalities between 2019 and 2023. The highest number of deaths occurred in 2023 with 93 fatalities, while the lowest was in 2020 with 63.
South Carolina holds the second position, recording an average of 2.98 night-time pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 residents, over twice the national average of 1.43. The Palmetto State saw an average of 155.6 nighttime pedestrian deaths from 2019 to 2023. Fatalities peaked in 2021 with 171 incidents, while the lowest count was in 2019 with 150.
Florida takes third place, reporting an average of 2.82 night-time pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 residents – nearly twice the national benchmark of 1.43. The Sunshine State recorded an average of 618.6 such fatalities over the five-year span from 2019 to 2023. The deadliest year was 2021, with 658 deaths, while 2020 saw the fewest, totaling 576.
Claiming the fourth position, Arizona sees an average of 2.75 nighttime pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 residents, placing it well above the national rate of 1.43. The Grand Canyon State averaged 201.2 deaths between 2019 and 2023. Of the five years, 2022 marked the highest toll with 248 deaths, while 2020 saw the lowest count at 169.
Louisiana takes the 5th position with an average of 2.70 night-time pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 residents — nearly twice the national average of 1.43. The Pelican State recorded an average of 124.6 night-time pedestrian deaths annually between 2019 and 2023. Both 2021 and 2022 marked the deadliest years with 148 fatalities each, while 2019 saw the lowest count at 86 deaths.
Mississippi (6th) reported 2.41 average nighttime pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 residents. California (7th) followed with 2.27 deaths per 100,000 residents, while Delaware (8th) and Georgia (9th) both recorded 2.25 per 100,000 residents. Texas (10th) rounded out the list with 2.11 average nighttime pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents.
Iowa averaged 0.46 night-time pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents from 2019 to 2023 – the lowest rate in the country.
Table of Extended Results:
Looking at the study, a spokesperson from Suzuki Law Offices commented:
“The data highlights that Florida is experiencing deeply concerning levels of night-time pedestrian fatalities.”
“Each night-time pedestrian death is a heartbreaking event that shatters families and impacts entire communities. These losses often result in emotional devastation, unexpected medical costs, and financial instability for those left behind.”
“To reduce these preventable tragedies, there must be investments in safer road infrastructure, like improved street lighting and clearer pedestrian crossings, alongside stronger DUI enforcement and consistent public safety campaigns. Without meaningful steps forward, this crisis will only continue to grow.”
Methodology
This analysis examined fatal nighttime pedestrian fatality data from 2019 to 2023, sourced from the Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). By calculating the average number of pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents in each state, the study identified regions with the highest risks for night-time pedestrian fatalities.
Safeguarding Pedestrian Safety
To ensure pedestrian safety, always walk on the sidewalk when available and, if not, walk facing traffic. Be visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing, especially at night. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, looking left, right, and left again, and make eye contact with drivers before proceeding. Avoid distractions like cell phones and headphones, and be aware of your surroundings, including turning vehicles.
General Walking Safety
- Walk on sidewalks: Sidewalks offer the safest route, keeping you away from traffic.
- If no sidewalk, walk facing traffic: This allows you to see oncoming vehicles and be seen by drivers.
- Be visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
- Cross at crosswalks: Cross only at designated crosswalks or intersections, not between parked cars.
- Look before crossing: Look left, right, and left again, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
- Obey traffic signals: Pay attention to traffic signals and pedestrian signals, but don’t rely solely on them.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Avoid distractions like cell phones and headphones, and be aware of vehicles entering or exiting driveways.
- Walk with others: Walking with a friend or in a group can increase your safety.
Night Walking
- Use reflective gear and/or illumination: Wear reflective clothing, use a flashlight, or carry a reflective bag or vest.
- Walk in well-lit areas: Choose routes with good lighting and avoid dark alleys or poorly lit areas.
- Be extra cautious at night: Drivers may have reduced visibility, so be extra careful when crossing the street.
Other Important Tips
- Plan your route: Choose routes with sidewalks, crosswalks, and good visibility.
- Stay sober: Alcohol and drugs impair your judgment and coordination.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and potential hazards.
- Don’t assume drivers see you: Make eye contact with drivers and be prepared to take evasive action.
By following these safety tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of pedestrian accidents and enjoy your walks safely.
This article was created at the WHN News Desk using some of the information provided by Jake Kenney and Bella Adams on behalf of the Phoenix-based criminal defense lawyers at the Suzuki Law Offices.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN neither agrees nor disagrees with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
