Oklahoma finds itself at the center of a growing controversy surrounding pedestrian safety. The state ranks among the top 20 in the United States for per capita pedestrian fatalities, which has raised alarm bells among safety advocates. However, what's drawing even more attention is Oklahoma's decision to set a 2024 target that anticipates an increase in deaths caused by pedestrian accidents.
Since pedestrians are much smaller and lack the protection afforded by motor vehicles, they're more likely to suffer severe and life-threatening injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, and spinal injuries. To help prevent serious and fatal pedestrian accidents, it's important for drivers to remain vigilant and for state officials to take action to make our roads safer.
How does the federal Highway Safety Improvement Program factor into pedestrian fatalities?
The federal Highway Safety Improvement Program provides funding for states to improve road safety. States must set safety targets to access these funds, but the program doesn't specify how to set these benchmarks. Oklahoma and 12 other states have chosen to set a 2024 target higher than its previous years' casualty numbers.
This approach has sparked criticism from advocacy groups such as Smart Growth America. Heidi Simon, the organization's director of thriving communities, argues that nobody wants to die in pedestrian accidents. However, she also expresses some support for the decision to set higher targets.
“I think what these targets show is what kinds of commitments states are willing to make to address pedestrian safety against other competing priorities — and what funds and leadership they're willing to put behind them,” she said.
What are common causes of pedestrian fatalities in Oklahoma?
Most pedestrian fatalities in Oklahoma are linked to:
High-speed roads
State-controlled roads contribute disproportionately to pedestrian deaths across the nation. These roads are typically faster and wider than local streets. They account for 54% of all pedestrian fatalities despite making up only 20% of the total road network.
Distracted driving
The rise of smartphones has led to an increase in distracted driving across the country. Oklahoma drivers who text, browse social media, or engage in other distracting behaviors while driving pose a significant risk to pedestrians. That’s because they have little time to react to pedestrians, even if they take their eyes off the road for a split second.
Impaired driving
Drunk driving remains a major cause of traffic fatalities, including those involving pedestrians. Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs causes delays in reaction time, loss of motor function, and poor judgment.
Poor visibility
Many pedestrian fatalities occur at night or in low-light conditions. Inadequate street lighting, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic, can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents.
Lack of pedestrian infrastructure
The absence of proper pedestrian infrastructure - such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals - forces people to walk in unsafe conditions. In many cases, pedestrians have to share the road with mixed traffic.
Vehicle design
Larger vehicles, such as SUVs and pickup trucks, are common in Oklahoma. These vehicles lead to more severe injuries in pedestrian collisions due to their higher front-end profile, as well as their size and weight.
What can Oklahoma do to reduce pedestrian fatalities?
To address its pedestrian safety crisis, Oklahoma officials can take several steps, including:
- Set ambitious goals to reduce pedestrian fatalities rather than anticipating increases.
- Focus on redesigning and retrofitting state-controlled roads to prioritize pedestrian safety.
- Investigate potential racial disparities in pedestrian deaths and develop targeted solutions.
- Ensure a significant portion of HSIP funds go toward pedestrian safety improvements.
- Launch campaigns to educate both drivers and pedestrians about road safety.
If you were hit by a car and injured, you need to protect your rights
Were you or a loved one injured in a pedestrian accident in Oklahoma? The attorneys at Lawter & Associates, PLLC have over 40 years of experience fighting for the rights of injured pedestrians and their families. We know how to hold negligent drivers accountable and pursue the compensation our clients deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our legal team thoroughly investigates every case, gathers key evidence, and takes on insurance companies. Contact us online or call our law offices in Oklahoma City or Tulsa to schedule your free case evaluation. Let us fight for the justice and financial compensation you deserve.
"Since this was my first time using a law firm for anything I never knew how much work goes into something as simple as a car accident. It took about 8 months to get it done which felt like forever, but I'm thankful for the result I got. I think it was a great decision going with Lawter and Associates. I'll definitely keep the contact info." - Alex