The escalating issue of pedestrian accidents is a nationwide concern, and Quincy, Illinois, is no exception to this alarming trend. In 2021 alone, there were 7,388 pedestrian fatalities in traffic crashes across the United States, marking a significant 12.5% increase from the 6,565 recorded in 2020. This means that pedestrian accidents are a serious problem here too.
Illinois pedestrian accidents
Illinois mirrors this disconcerting scenario, experiencing a 12.2% rise in traffic-related deaths from 2020. Specifically, within the initial half of 2021, 78 pedestrians lost their lives. This is a notable increase from 77 in 2020 and 70 in 2019.
Quincy, Illinois, an echo of a broader problem
While precise data for Quincy, Illinois, is not readily available, it is reasonable to assume that the statewide trends extend to this city and its vicinity. Cities, like Quincy, constitute urban areas where 84% of pedestrian fatalities occurred in 2021 are particularly vulnerable.
Contributing factors
Several factors contribute to the heightened rate of pedestrian accidents. In 2021, a staggering 70% of pedestrians killed in traffic crashes were males. Alcohol involvement was reported in 49% of fatal pedestrian crashes. Furthermore, 89% of pedestrian fatalities occurred in single-vehicle crashes, and nearly 1 in 4 pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2021 were struck by hit-and-run drivers.
The significance of time and place
The timing and location of pedestrian accidents also play a crucial role. Almost 80% of pedestrian fatalities occurred in the dark in 2021, compared to 20% in daylight, 2% at dusk and 2% at dawn. Additionally, 16% of pedestrian fatalities occurred at intersections, 75% at non-intersection locations and the remaining 9% at other places.
Conclusion
The data unmistakably underscores that pedestrian accidents pose a serious problem in Illinois, and Quincy faces similar challenges. Heightened awareness and precautionary measures are essential for both pedestrians and drivers.