May 4th 2024.
A recent report has shed light on a concerning trend – people of different ethnicities are ending up in the emergency room for traffic-related injuries at higher rates than white people. The report, released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on May 2, revealed that over 137,000 individuals sought treatment in the emergency room for pedestrian injuries between January 2021 and December 2023.
Interestingly, the data showed that Asian pedestrians had a 2.23 times higher rate of emergency room visits compared to white people, followed by Black pedestrians with a 1.93 times higher rate. Hispanic individuals also had a higher rate at 1.7 times more than white people. Surprisingly, those who identified as multiethnic or of another race had the highest rate at 2.47, according to the Associated Press.
The report also highlighted that certain age groups and genders were more susceptible to traffic-related injuries. The age ranges of 15-24 and 25-34 had the highest rate of emergency room visits, and men were almost twice as likely as women to require treatment.
Researchers at the CDC pointed to several factors contributing to these high rates, including unsafe walking environments, where cars are prioritized over pedestrians, and a lack of investments in certain neighborhoods based on race and income. They also noted that limited resources can lead to a lack of infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and streetlights, which can make walking safer.
Despite advancements in car technology and safety features, pedestrian deaths have continued to rise. In 2021, a tragic record was set with 7,000 pedestrian fatalities – the highest in nearly 40 years. This trend has hit close to home in Tallahassee, Florida, where three pedestrians have already lost their lives in the first quarter of 2024. According to ABC 27, the Tallahassee Police Department reported 46 pedestrian-involved crashes, including a fatal hit-and-run that sparked a petition for stop lights in the College Town neighborhood, garnering over 20,000 signatures.
In response to this alarming trend, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has taken action to reduce the number of pedestrian-involved crashes. In April 2024, the department announced that all new vehicles will be required to have an automatic emergency brake system. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg believes that this move could save over 300 lives each year and prevent about 24,000 injuries.
In addition to implementing new safety measures in vehicles, the CDC researchers also suggested narrowing roads and reducing speed limits to improve pedestrian safety. While these efforts may seem small, they could make a significant impact in preventing traffic-related injuries and fatalities. As we continue to navigate the roadways, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of all individuals, regardless of their ethnicity, age, or gender.
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