Pedestrian deaths dropped by just over four per cent last year, according to a new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). — Photo Credit: iStock

Pedestrian deaths in the US drop for second straight year

Jul 17, 2025

Pedestrian deaths dropped by just over four per cent last year, according to a new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).

It marks the second consecutive annual decline after surging throughout the prior decade. However, the GHSA said the 7,148 pedestrians killed last year, is still nearly 20% above the 2016 level.

“The second straight year of fewer pedestrian deaths is a step in the right direction, but much more must be done to protect people walking,” said GHSA Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Adkins.

“Now is the time to double down on what works – more and better infrastructure, enforcement to deter dangerous driving behaviors, engaged and informed communities, and vehicles designed to protect people on foot. An all-in strategy to address pedestrian safety will help us build on this recent momentum and save even more lives.”

The report found one in four pedestrian deaths is the result of a hit-and-run crash and the share of pedestrian deaths caused by SUVs and pickups has surged in recent years.

While the number of pedestrian deaths involving passenger cars and light trucks (including SUVs, pickups and vans) was largely similar for much of the 2010s, the report showed a significant gap has emerged and grown since 2019. Light trucks accounted for 54% of pedestrian fatalities where a vehicle type was known in 2023, compared to 37% for passenger cars.

The share of nighttime deaths has also increased. Fatal pedestrian crashes at night nearly doubled from 3,030 in 2010 to 5,578 in 2023.

And the GHSA said alcohol impairment by both drivers and pedestrians is also a significant safety concern. In 2023, 29% of pedestrians 16 and older killed in motor vehicle crashes had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. Looking at driver impairment, approximately 16% of fatal pedestrian crashes involved a driver with a BAC over 0.08.

This August, traffic safety, law enforcement, technology, government, nonprofit, and business leaders will come together in Pittsburgh for the GHSA 2025 Annual Meeting.