There were 7,388 pedestrian fatalities in the US in 2021, which makes for an average of 20 deaths per day. As a personal injury law firm, we see the devastating effects of pedestrian accidents and understand the importance of advocating for better safety measures and offering informed legal assistance to those who have been affected.
To understand which state is currently posing the greatest risk to pedestrians, we decided to analyze data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The research we conducted involved a thorough analysis of traffic fatalities in the US from 2021, including those involving pedestrians.
Our research focused on the number of pedestrians killed, state populations, and calculated the pedestrian fatality rate per 100,000 population to determine where pedestrians are most at risk.
The State with the Highest Pedestrian Fatality Rate
| Rank | State | Pedestrians Killed | Population (Thousands) | Pedestrian Fatality Rate per 100,000 Population |
| 1 | New Mexico | 102 | 2116 | 4.82 |
| 2 | Louisiana | 184 | 4624 | 3.98 |
| 3 | Florida | 817 | 21781 | 3.75 |
| 4 | South Carolina | 190 | 5191 | 3.66 |
| 5 | Arizona | 248 | 7276 | 3.41 |
| 6 | Mississippi | 94 | 2950 | 3.19 |
| 7 | Delaware | 29 | 1003 | 2.89 |
| 8 | Georgia | 306 | 10800 | 2.83 |
| 9 | California | 1108 | 39238 | 2.82 |
| 10 | Texas | 817 | 29528 | 2.77 |
| 11 | District of Columbia | 18 | 670 | 2.69 |
| 12 | Oklahoma | 106 | 3987 | 2.66 |
| 13 | Arkansas | 79 | 3026 | 2.61 |
| 14 | Nevada | 80 | 3144 | 2.54 |
| 15 | Alabama | 128 | 5040 | 2.54 |
| 16 | Tennessee | 177 | 6975 | 2.54 |
| 17 | North Carolina | 248 | 10551 | 2.35 |
| 18 | New Jersey | 212 | 9267 | 2.29 |
| 19 | Alaska | 16 | 733 | 2.18 |
| 20 | Maryland | 129 | 6165 | 2.09 |
| 21 | Oregon | 87 | 4246 | 2.05 |
| 22 | West Virginia | 36 | 1783 | 2.02 |
| 23 | Wyoming | 11 | 579 | 1.9 |
| 24 | Missouri | 117 | 6168 | 1.9 |
| 25 | Washington | 142 | 7739 | 1.83 |
| 26 | Hawaii | 25 | 1442 | 1.73 |
| 27 | Michigan | 174 | 10051 | 1.73 |
| 28 | Kentucky | 75 | 4509 | 1.66 |
| 29 | Illinois | 209 | 12671 | 1.65 |
| 30 | Indiana | 111 | 6806 | 1.63 |
| 31 | Montana | 18 | 1104 | 1.63 |
| 32 | Colorado | 92 | 5812 | 1.58 |
| 33 | South Dakota | 14 | 895 | 1.56 |
| 34 | New York | 293 | 19836 | 1.48 |
| 35 | Connecticut | 53 | 3606 | 1.47 |
| 36 | Kansas | 43 | 2935 | 1.47 |
| 37 | Ohio | 168 | 11780 | 1.43 |
| 38 | Virginia | 123 | 8642 | 1.42 |
| 39 | Maine | 19 | 1372 | 1.38 |
| 40 | Pennsylvania | 176 | 12964 | 1.36 |
| 41 | North Dakota | 10 | 775 | 1.29 |
| 42 | Utah | 43 | 3338 | 1.29 |
| 43 | Vermont | 8 | 646 | 1.24 |
| 44 | Idaho | 21 | 1901 | 1.1 |
| 45 | Massachusetts | 74 | 6985 | 1.06 |
| 46 | Iowa | 30 | 3193 | 0.94 |
| 47 | Minnesota | 50 | 5707 | 0.88 |
| 48 | Wisconsin | 48 | 5896 | 0.81 |
| 49 | Nebraska | 15 | 1964 | 0.76 |
| 50 | Rhode Island | 7 | 1096 | 0.64 |
| 51 | New Hampshire | 8 | 1389 | 0.58 |
The research showed the most dangerous state for pedestrians is New Mexico, with a pedestrian fatality rate of 4.82 per 100,000. Despite its smaller population, the high number of fatalities is alarming. According to the National Library of Medicine, the underlying factors for the high number of pedestrian deaths include dangerous crossings and the absence or inadequacy of pedestrian bridges, as well as negative perceptions of road safety by pedestrians.
In second place is Louisiana, which has a fatality rate of 3.98 per 100,000 for pedestrians killed by traffic accidents. The data reveals pedestrian safety is a significant concern in Louisiana.
Florida ranks third in the study. During the year analyzed, there were 817 pedestrians killed from traffic accidents. Known for its large population and high tourist traffic, Florida’s rate is 3.75 per 100,000.
In fourth place is South Carolina with a rate of 3.66 per 100,000. South Carolina had 190 pedestrian fatalities in 2021. In fifth place is Arizona which has a pedestrian fatality rate of 3.41 per 100,000.
Georgia ranks eighth with a pedestrian fatality rate of 2.83 per 100,000. Although this is lower than the top-ranking states, it still indicates significant risk. In 2022, Georgia recorded 306 pedestrian deaths, which underscores the importance of continued efforts to improve pedestrian safety across the state.
The state with the highest number of pedestrian fatalities is California which had 1108 pedestrian deaths in 2021.
Factors Contributing to High Pedestrian Fatality Rates
There are several factors that contribute to pedestrian fatality rates in the US. States which have highly urbanized areas with heavy traffic can pose more risks to pedestrians, as well as those states which lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure like sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals can lead to more accidents.
There are also significant variations in traffic laws and their enforcement across the different states which can affect pedestrian safety. Additionally, the level of public awareness and education regarding pedestrian safety plays a crucial role.
To mitigate these risks and reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities in the future, it is essential to focus on improving infrastructure by investing in safer pedestrian pathways, better lighting, and clearly marked crosswalks.
There must be stricter enforcement of traffic laws across all states, including speed limits and pedestrian right-of-way. Moreover, public campaigns to raise awareness about pedestrian safety can encourage both drivers and pedestrians to be more cautious.
Conclusion
Our analysis of the NHTSA data reveals stark differences in pedestrian safety across the United States. In states like New Mexico, Louisiana, and Florida, there are alarmingly high pedestrian fatality rates which highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions. In Georgia, while the situation is somewhat better, the number of pedestrian deaths remains a concern.
At Bader Scott, we are committed to advocating for safer streets and supporting victims of pedestrian accidents. By understanding the risks and contributing factors, we can work towards a future where pedestrians can walk safely without fear of accidents.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert legal guidance and support. Together, we can strive for safer communities and justice for those affected by such tragedies.