In this episode of Freakonomics, titled “Why Is the U.S. So Good at Killing Pedestrians?”, the hosts explore the alarming increase in pedestrian deaths in the United States. They delve into the reasons behind this trend and discuss potential solutions to improve pedestrian safety. The episode highlights the role of street design, distracted driving, and the need for regulatory changes to address this pressing issue.
The episode highlights the alarming increase in pedestrian deaths in the US, with around 7,500 deaths last year. The US has a higher death rate for pedestrians compared to other high-income countries. The street design prioritizes car movement over pedestrian safety, resulting in an imbalance in space dedicated to cars versus other modes of transportation. Crash hotspot analysis reveals that a significant percentage of crashes occur on a small percentage of roadways in most cities, emphasizing the need for targeted improvements.
Distracted driving is a major cause of roadway fatalities, with distraction levels varying depending on the source. Inattentional blindness, a hazard caused by distracted driving, can lead to drivers not seeing objects right in front of them. Reducing distractions is crucial for safety until autonomous travel becomes more prevalent.
The 85th percentile rule, used by most states when setting speed limits, allows speed limits to be changed based on the speed at which 85% of drivers are traveling. However, this rule often results in roads designed to enable cars to drive faster, disregarding the safety of other road users. New York City’s Vision Zero approach aims to eliminate traffic deaths and injuries. Implementing shared streets, lowering speeds, targeting crash hotspots, and using speed cameras can significantly reduce fatalities. Shifting the blame from pedestrians to drivers and promoting behavioral changes are also crucial for pedestrian safety.
The increasing number of pedestrian deaths in the US is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. Addressing street design, distracted driving, and regulatory changes are key to improving pedestrian safety. By implementing targeted improvements, reducing distractions, and shifting the blame to drivers, it is possible to create a safer environment for pedestrians. The episode emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that combines infrastructure changes, behavioral shifts, and regulatory measures to eliminate pedestrian fatalities and create a more pedestrian-friendly transportation system.