SUVs Increasingly Involved in Fatal Pedestrian Accidents

Jun 11,2018

A new study reveals an increase in fatal pedestrian crashes caused by SUVs. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the number of pedestrian fatalities involving SUVs increased by 81% between 2009 and 2016. This increase was 3% higher than the increase in fatal pedestrian crashes caused by all other vehicle types combined.

What has caused the increase? For one, the number of registered SUVs in the U.S. went up 37% from 2009 to 2016. Moreover, SUVs are more deadly for pedestrians in crashes than smaller passenger vehicles. Because their front ends are higher and more vertical, SUVs are more likely to hit a pedestrian in the head or chest.

Could SUVs be Made Safer for Pedestrians?

Is there a way to make SUVs safer for pedestrians? The IIHS suggests that certain changes, such as softer front ends and brighter headlights, could make SUVs less deadly in the event of a pedestrian accident. Pedestrian airbags, which inflate on the outside of the vehicle if it hits a pedestrian, are another possible solution.

“While technology has improved to make vehicles safer, pedestrian fatalities continue to be a serious concern on U.S. roadways,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at (760) 777-7777 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.