Federal Report: Decrease in Virginia and North Carolina pedestrian fatalities

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — More than 7,000 pedestrians were killed in the U.S. in 2023, 5.4% less than the previous year, according to a newly-issued federal report .

In 2023, 7,318 pedestrians were killed across the country, while in Virginia, 133 pedestrians were killed last year, 17 less than in 2022. In North Carolina, 248 pedestrians died after being struck by a vehicle in 2023, 38 less than in 2022.

When compared to national averages, Virginia has slightly fewer pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 people and North Carolina has slightly more. The state with the most pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 people in 2023 was New Mexico, while the state with the least was Iowa.

Both states were highlighted in the report for working to improve pedestrian safety. Virginia was highlighted for authorizing the use of speed cameras in school zones. North Carolina was highlighted for having law enforcement training activities focused on “traffic laws designed to enhance safety for pedestrians and other non-motorized road users.”

The report made suggestions to help reduce the number of pedestrians killed, including:

• Lighting improvements to help drivers see pedestrians, particularly at night, when most pedestrian fatalities occur.
• More sidewalks, especially in rural areas.
• Banning right turns on red lights because drivers turning right on red can be so focused on oncoming vehicle traffic so they do not see people in the crosswalk.

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