Hit-and-run deaths on the rise
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports increase in cyclist and pedestrian fatalities
If you live in Los Angeles or New York, you may want to pay extra close attention on the road. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these cities have the highest rates of pedestrian and cyclist deaths.
A new study from NHTSA indicates that total fatalities decreased by 1.9 percent from 2010, but cyclist and pedestrian deaths increased. This mixed report shows alarming numbers: 8.7 percent increase in cyclist fatalities and three percent increase in pedestrian fatalities in 2011.
More on MSN Living: 100 ways to save money in 2013
In L.A., hit and runs involving pedestrians occur almost daily, reports NPR. In 2012, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) recorded more than 2,500 motor vehicle vs. pedestrian incidents ranging from minor injury to death. Pedestrian traffic fatalities in Los Angeles are nearly triple the national average, cites a study by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute.
More on MSN Living: 50 best celebrity makeovers of all times
“Just in the last few days, we’ve had three pedestrians who were killed when they were crossing the street,” Detective Bill Busto, the office in charge of LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division was quoted. He says that lie many cities across the country, L.A. drivers and pedestrians are increasingly distracted by electronic devices.
“Here we live in our vehicle practically, we commute everywhere we go,” Busto was quoted.
Bing: Traffic fatalities by state
“There’s so much – so many cases, so many victims, and not enough hours in the day,” LAPD officer Rhiannon Talley was quoted.
The need is clear: It is important to continue to keep overall traffic fatalities down and educate the public on driver distraction, red light running and speed in our intersections.
Drivers, pedestrians and cyclists – how do you practice caution and share the road?
Photo: Ola Dusegard/Getty Images
More from MSN Living:
Mansion made from trash
2012's worst words
10 facts about guns in America
inspire: live a better life
-
14 Gifts Under $100
Adorable, original gifts to delight dads, grads, and newlyweds (plus they're under $100!).
-
I thought we had a good time on the first date
Miss Manners shares how to handle the next steps after a first date...gone wrong.
-
What do I do when I blank on someone's name?
Miss Manners advises on how to navigate the potentially embarrassing situation.
-
9 simple ways to de-stress at home
When there's no time to escape to the spa, create your own oasis at home. Here are nine ways to help you decompress in the comfort of your bedroom.
-
Help: I only have 6 invitations for my graduation
Miss Manners offers advice on what to do when you don't have enough invites.
-
When children suffer from a family feud
Miss Manners talks about how to handle separated parents and extended family who don't get along.
-
My step-child is causing me heartache
Miss Manners on how to handle a stressful situation involving a step-daughter, an ex-son-in-law and a grandchild
-
Should I send thank you notes even if they are late?
Miss Manners advises on thank you note etiquette
-
Handling disrespectful comments about weight
Miss Manners advises on how to respond when one gets unsolicited advice about weight issues.
-
Memorial Day: Behind its meaning and traditions
Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have fallen during service to our country. As we commemorate the soldiers we have lost, as well as wounded soldiers, bereaved families, orphans and widows, let’s not forget the meaning and traditions behind this sacred holiday.
-
Respecting other people's beliefs
Editor's note: We will now be publishing Miss Manners articles twice weekly, but you will only see one question and answer per article. You can expect to see these articles appear on Tuesdays and Thursdays going forward.
-
5 heartwarming Armed Forces homecomings
President Harry S. Truman was behind efforts to establish the first Armed Forces Day in 1950, and decades later the nation continues to set aside the third Saturday in May to recognize and thank members of the U.S. military for their patriotic service. With these five homecoming images, we salute all service members at home and abroad.
