Pedestrian deaths have remained alarmingly high. In 2023, more than 7,300 people walking were killed in traffic crashes in the U.S., about one every 72 minutes, according to the NHTSA. One factor stands out: the widespread adoption of mobile devices, larger vehicles with blunt fronts, and distractions both inside and outside the car. This blog explores how technology plays into pedestrian deaths, what that means if you or a loved one is struck, and what to do if you are injured in a pedestrian accident.
Why Are Pedestrian Deaths So High?
Several intersecting trends have raised the risk for people on foot:
- Distraction by drivers and walkers–When drivers handle phones, infotainment systems, or other screens, their focus drifts from the road. At the same time, pedestrians using smartphones while walking may misjudge crossings or ignore hazards.
- Larger vehicles lead to worse outcomes–The rise of SUVs, trucks, and heavier passenger vehicles has increased the severity of pedestrian collisions. Larger front ends often result in more force and higher fatality rates.
- Visibility, infrastructure, and conditions–Many fatal crashes occur at night, on roads without sidewalks, and at non‑intersection crossings where design fails to protect the most vulnerable users.
In short: technology isn’t always the answer—it can be the problem when it distracts us, both inside the vehicle and on the sidewalk.
What the Numbers Reveal
- In 2023, pedestrian fatalities accounted for 18 % of all traffic deaths, according to the US Department of Transportation.
- Nearly three out of every four pedestrian deaths happened in locations not at intersections and under dark conditions (NHTSA).
- Data from 2014‑2024 show pedestrian deaths rose about 48 % despite overall traffic fatalities slowly falling (Governors Highway Safety Association).
In short, even as vehicles get safer, people walking remain at growing risk—and technology both inside and outside the car plays a key role.
How Technology Influences Pedestrian Crashes
Inside the vehicle
Features such as infotainment systems, texting while driving, and screen penetration have made driver distraction a major factor in pedestrian collisions. For example, in crashes where distraction was confirmed, thousands of pedestrian fatalities were tied to distracted drivers.
Outside the vehicle
Smartphone use by pedestrians—texting, browsing, gaming—reduces awareness of surroundings. A distracted walker might step off a curb without seeing an approaching vehicle. This type of behavior escalates risk, especially at night or in high‑traffic zones.
Vehicle design & automation
Technology also shapes the vehicle‑pedestrian interface: while systems like automatic emergency braking (AEB) promise improved safety, vehicle size and shape can still greatly influence outcomes. Heavier, taller vehicles often result in more devastating pedestrian impacts.
What To Do If Injured in a Pedestrian Accident
Being struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian can leave you with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and an urgent need for answers. If technology or design flaws (distraction, phone use, heavy vehicle, etc.) may have played a role, here are important steps:
- Document the scene–Photograph location, lighting, vehicle details, driver’s behavior, your phone or other distraction items if applicable.
- Seek medical care immediately–Even if you feel okay, some injuries reveal themselves later.
- Preserve evidence–Save phone records, request video surveillance, gather witness accounts—especially if distraction was involved.
- Speak with a personal injury attorney–An attorney experienced in pedestrian accidents can help identify liability, gather vehicle safety design data, and navigate claims involving pedestrians.
Legal Help for Pedestrian Accident Victims in Northbrook
At Stein & Shulman, we understand that pedestrian accidents are often the result of someone else’s avoidable choices or technology misuse. We bring our knowledge of vehicle safety standards, distracted driving laws, and pedestrian‑specific liability to every case. Let us help you recover compensation and hold responsible parties accountable. Contact us today to speak with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a pedestrian still recover damages if the driver was distracted by their phone?
Yes. If distraction is shown—such as phone records, vehicle telematics, or witness testimony—it strengthens the pedestrian’s case and may raise insurance coverage or responsible‑party liability.
Does the size or type of vehicle affect a pedestrian claim?
Absolutely. A collision involving a heavy SUV or truck often results in more severe injuries. Vehicle design and size may become key factors in proving negligence or risk.
Does texting while walking prevent my recovery?
Not necessarily. Even if you were distracted, you may still have a valid claim—liability often depends on the vehicle driver’s actions, vehicle design, or environmental conditions. Your attorney can help analyze comparative fault in your jurisdiction.
