Arizona takes unwanted title in national issue

State has highest rate of pedestrian deaths per resident population in U.S.

Given Yuma’s mild winters, many may want to walk to reach their destinations. After all, walking is a healthy activity, and it’s lovely to be outside, enjoying the lovely weather.

However, walkers and drivers alike need to pay attention when out and about, considering a new report by the Governors Highway Safety Association.

The study reports that Arizona has the highest rate of pedestrian deaths per resident population in the United States, with 1.61 pedestrian deaths per 100,0000 people for the first half of 2017.

That’s the highest rate in the country and nearly double the national average — a rate of .81 pedestrian deaths for every 100,000 people, the Associated Press reports.

The good news is, more people are choosing to walk, according to the study, which decreases automobile pollution and provides critical health benefits.

The study found that nationwide, fewer than 20 percent of pedestrian fatalities in 2016 occurred at intersections. Instead, the majority occurred either in travel lanes away from intersections (72 percent) or in locations such as shoulders and driveways.

The report did, however, offer suggestions to help prevent further fatalities.

Researchers noted that a “3E” approach works best: targeted enforcement, engineering improvements and public education, tailored to the specific needs of each community.

Ideas include more sidewalks, countdown pedestrian signals that provide ample crossing time, refuge islands to allow pedestrians to cross two-way streets one direction at a time, improved street lighting, high-visibility crosswalks, and rapid-flashing beacons mounted to pedestrian crossing signs at midblock crossings.

Roundabouts, speed bumps and curb extensions where appropriate were also recommended.

The most important thing that both drivers and pedestrians can do is the simplest, however: pay attention, both to route and possible dangers around you.

Much like one should not drive and text, one should also not walk and text. Keeping focus on your surroundings can do much to protect both pedestrians and drivers.