Report: Fatal Pedestrian Accidents Rose Over Decade in Massachusetts
The New Year has begun with several reports of pedestrian accidents across Massachusetts. One pedestrian was seriously injured in Springfield. Two pedestrians were killed, one in Charlestown and one in Oxford.
On January 5th, Boston Police responded to a fatal scene at Charlestown’s City Square. A 92-year-old pedestrian died after being struck by a vehicle near the Charlestown Navy Yard and dragged for nearly a mile, according to news reports. Police later announced they had located a vehicle of interest.
A new report highlights the dangerous climb in pedestrian crashes in the U.S. Between 2009 and 2018, the number of pedestrians killed in U.S. car crashes rose by 55 percent, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. This is a major increase, following three decades of decreases.
In Massachusetts, 725 pedestrians were killed during this period. Another 17,000 pedestrians were injured. Boston, Springfield, Worcester, New Bedford and Brockton reported the highest numbers of pedestrian injuries and fatalities in Massachusetts.
Other notes:
- Most pedestrian injuries occurred between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- 28 percent of the pedestrian accident victims in Massachusetts were 65 or older
- 3 out of 4 pedestrians killed on U.S. roads in 2018 were hit during darkness
- 84 percent of pedestrian accidents over the 10 years occurred on streets with speed limits 30 mph or higher
- There was a 70 percent increase in pedestrians killed at non-intersection locations without crosswalks
AAA is calling on cities and states to improve traffic infrastructure to provide more protection to pedestrians.
This report is a good reminder for drivers to really watch for pedestrians. This is January and darkness comes early. We are also wrestling with the COVID-19 pandemic. Many Massachusetts residents are out of routine and may be walking in new areas and at different times. As a driver, you have the ability to slow down and that can make all the difference in preventing a pedestrian accident. According to StreetsBlog, a pedestrian struck by a driver traveling at 20 mph has a 93 percent chance of surviving.
Here are a few safety reminders for drivers:
- Obey traffic signs.
- Slow down. Travel below the speed limit.
- Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.
- At traffic signals and stop signs, look front, back, right and left before you step on the gas. You have to watch for pedestrians as well as cyclists.
- Do not use your cell phone while driving.
Free Legal Consultation – Breakstone, White & Gluck
At Breakstone, White & Gluck, our Boston personal injury lawyers are known for our experience representing pedestrians who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents, truck collisions and bus accidents. We represent those injured by the negligence of others across Massachusetts, including in Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Everett, Quincy and other areas. If you or a loved one has been injured, learn your legal rights.
For a free legal consultation, contact Breakstone, White & Gluck at 800-379-1244 or 617-723-7676 or use our contact form.