Dive Brief:
Pedestrian and cyclist deaths climbed in 2018, according to data released Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). According to the administration’s data, pedestrian deaths totaled 6,283, an increase of 3.4% and a record high since 1990, while deaths of those on pedal-powered bikes rose by 6.3% to 857.
NHTSA said most pedestrian fatalities (76%) occurred after dark, with 38% of pedestrians having some alcohol in their systems. The administration also said 74% of pedestrian deaths did not happen at intersections. Meanwhile, of those killed on two wheels, 50% happened after dark, with 60% outside of intersections. NHTSA added that 26% had some alcohol in their systems.
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