In 2018, pedestrian motor vehicle crash deaths have increased 53 percent since reaching their low point in 2009 and account for 17 percent of crash fatalities. The rates of pedestrian deaths in motor vehicle crashes per 100,000 people are highest for people ages 70 and older.

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Pedestrian deaths occur primarily in urban areas. Engineering measures that separate vehicles and pedestrians such as sidewalks, refuge islands, overpasses and underpasses, and barriers can reduce the problem. Increased illumination, improved signal timing at intersections, and beacons that alert drivers to stop at crosswalks when pedestrians are present also can be effective. Because traffic speeds affect the risk and severity of pedestrian crashes, reducing speeds can lower pedestrian deaths.

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A total of 6,283 pedestrian deaths occurred in 2018. Pedestrian fatalities increased 3 percent from 2017, and now account for 17 percent of all crash fatalities. Although pedestrian deaths were 16 percent lower in 2018 than in 1975, they have increased 53 percent since reaching their lowest point in 2009.