With the rise of SUVs and pickup trucks on the road, pedestrians face increased danger. The size and design of these larger vehicles make them more likely to cause serious or fatal injuries in accidents. Unlike drivers, pedestrians don't have the protection of seatbelts, airbags, or any safety gear. When a collision happens, the impact is much more severe for those on foot, who are no match for the weight and size of today's vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is stepping up to address this issue. They're proposing new vehicle design standards to reduce pedestrian injuries and deaths. These regulations couldn't come at a more critical time, as pedestrian fatalities have surged by over 75% since 2009. Changes are coming, and they're focused on saving lives.
How will the NHTSA's proposed regulations mitigate pedestrian fatalities?
According to NHTSA deputy administrator Sophie Shulman, the new rule will help ensure vehicle designs that protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. The NHTSA's new proposal introduces test procedures to simulate head-to-hood impacts to help reduce head injuries. According to the agency's estimates, these changes could save approximately 67 lives annually.
Safety advocates have often criticized NHTSA for focusing solely on in-car safety while ignoring those outside. However, many applaud the proposed standards for aligning U.S. regulations with global standards in countries that have managed to lower traffic fatality rates.
Recently, Congress also introduced a bill to set federal standards for vehicle visibility and hood height, further reflecting an increased awareness of pedestrian safety. The rising number of fatalities over the last decade is partly attributed to vehicle size, road and sidewalk design, increased speeding, and declining traffic law enforcement.
Do vehicle designs help prevent pedestrian fatalities?
Experts argue that vehicle design plays a huge role in pedestrian safety. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), vehicles with higher front profiles are 45% more likely to cause fatalities in crashes with pedestrians compared to smaller vehicles. David Harkey, president of the IIHS, welcomed the NHTSA's proposal, emphasizing that the move aligns with their past recommendations to make vehicles safer for everyone on the road.
However, not everyone is on board. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, representing automakers, expressed that it is still reviewing the NHTSA's extensive proposal. In a statement, the group reiterated that "safety is a top priority" and pointed out automakers' voluntary introduction of crash avoidance technologies. They also acknowledged that they had provided input during the early stages of the proposed regulations and would continue to evaluate the latest developments.
Our attorneys fight for injured pedestrians
Getting hit by a car while walking or running isn't something anyone expects, but pedestrian accidents happen all too often—especially in Wichita Falls and the surrounding area. If you've been hurt, don't face the insurance company alone. The experienced pedestrian accident attorneys at Hoover Rogers Law, LLP, know how to stand up to the insurance adjusters and fight for maximum compensation.
We understand what you're going through—mounting medical bills, lost wages, and the physical and emotional toll of recovery. That's why we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing. Our legal team will build a strong case to demand the compensation you deserve. We have a proven track record of success, and our case results prove it. Our results include $100,000 for a pedestrian injured in a collision with a motor vehicle.
If you've been injured in a pedestrian accident in Wichita Falls or the Lawton area, take action now. Contact us online or call for a free case evaluation. We'll guide you every step of the way and make sure your rights are protected.