Preliminary Numbers Show Sharp Increase In Pedestrian Related Deaths In Connecticut

With the pandemic and many people on lockdown Connecticut roads were significantly quieter in 2020 then they had been in any previous years.  However, with that there was an increase in pedestrian traffic from walkers, bikers, runners, and more.  With more pedestrians out and about you may expect the number of Connecticut pedestrian accidents to have increased, but that was not the case.   

According to the state Department of Transportation, the number of pedestrian accidents saw a steep decline in 2020.  In 2019 the number of accidents that involved pedestrians was 1,568 and in preliminary reports the number of accidents in 2020 was 842.  This was good news.  However, even with the steep decline in accidents, the number of pedestrian deaths from accidents increased year over year.  In 2019 the number of pedestrian deaths was reported to be 59 while that number increased by six in 2020 to 65 deaths.

Why was there such an increase in Connecticut pedestrian deaths even though accidents were down significantly?

Pedestrian safety advocates point to higher speeds and heavier cars that are causing the increase in deaths as a result of these types of accidents.  There is also a component that experts believe includes the steady increase in distracted driving.  Lower speed limits on city streets and stiffer penalties for distracted driving may an antidote to this issue.

It is important if you are driving or are a pedestrian to keep your eyes up and stay alert to make sure you are doing your part to eliminate the number of these types of accidents that happen and in turn result in death.If you or a loved one were injured as the result of a Connecticut pedestrian accident you may want to speak with an attorney.  Contact our office immediately and one of our attorneys will review your case.