Pedestrian accidents remain one of the deadliest and most persistent road-safety problems in the United States. NHTSA data show that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recorded 7,314 pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2023, accounting for 18 percent of all traffic fatalities that year. That is roughly 20 pedestrian deaths every day, or one about every 72 minutes.
These numbers represent people walking to work, crossing to a bus stop, or heading home after dark. Understanding when, where, and why pedestrian crashes happen is the first step toward avoiding them, whether you travel on foot or behind the wheel.
How Many Pedestrians Are Killed and Injured
The scale of the problem is significant. NHTSA reports 7,314 pedestrian deaths in 2023, a 3.7 percent decrease from the 7,593 pedestrians killed in 2022. Alongside those deaths, NHTSA estimates 68,244 pedestrians were injured in traffic crashes during 2023.
In NHTSA’s data, pedestrian deaths have made up a growing share of total traffic fatalities over the past decade, rising from about 15 percent in 2014 to 18 percent in recent years. Even as the raw count dipped slightly in 2023, walkers continue to bear a disproportionate share of the nation’s road deaths compared to the share of trips taken on foot.
When and Where Pedestrian Crashes Happen
The conditions surrounding pedestrian fatalities follow clear patterns. NHTSA data shows that 77 percent of pedestrian deaths in 2023 occurred in the dark, when reduced visibility makes it harder for drivers to see. Far fewer happened in daylight, at dusk, or at dawn.
Location matters just as much as light. Per NHTSA, 84 percent of pedestrian fatalities occurred in urban areas, where foot traffic and vehicle traffic mix most heavily. Notably, NHTSA found 74 percent happened away from intersections rather than at them, a reminder that mid-block crossings and roadway edges carry real risk.
Who Is Most Affected
Pedestrian crashes do not fall evenly across the population. Per NHTSA, the average age of pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2023 was 48, and adults across the middle ages made up a large share of the deaths. Alcohol also plays a frequent role, with impairment involving the driver or the pedestrian reported in a substantial portion of fatal pedestrian crashes.
Hit-and-run crashes compound the danger. Nearly one in four pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2023, about 24 percent per NHTSA, were struck by drivers who left the scene. That pattern leaves families without answers and makes timely reporting all the more important.
| 2023 pedestrian fatality fact | Figure |
|---|---|
| Pedestrians killed | 7,314 |
| Share of all traffic deaths | 18% |
| Killed in the dark | 77% |
| Struck by hit-and-run drivers | 24% |
Safety Tips for People on Foot
Walkers can lower their risk with a few consistent habits. Cross at intersections and marked crosswalks whenever possible, since drivers expect pedestrians there. Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into a travel lane, and never assume a vehicle will stop just because you have the right of way.
Visibility is the single biggest factor a pedestrian can influence after dark. Wear light-colored or reflective clothing at night, carry a small light or use your phone’s flashlight, and stay on sidewalks where they exist. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic so you can see approaching vehicles and react.
Safety Tips for Drivers
Drivers carry the greater responsibility because a vehicle does the greater harm. Slow down in areas with foot traffic, scan the sides of the road as well as the lane ahead, and treat every crosswalk as if someone may step into it. Extra caution near schools, transit stops, and parking lots prevents many close calls.
Stay especially alert after dark, when most pedestrian deaths occur, and reduce speed when visibility drops. Avoid distractions entirely when driving through populated areas, since the seconds your eyes leave the road are exactly when a walker can appear. Yield early and fully rather than at the last moment.
Why Reporting Pedestrian Crashes Matters
When a pedestrian crash occurs, an accurate report helps everyone involved understand what happened and supports any claim or investigation that follows. This matters most in hit-and-run cases, where every detail can aid the search for the driver who fled. You can follow the latest pedestrian accident reports by location to stay aware of incidents in your area.
Staying informed about local crash trends helps communities push for safer crossings, better lighting, and lower speeds where they are needed most. For ongoing coverage and guidance, browse pedestrian accident news and resources covering safety and reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pedestrians are killed in the US each year?
NHTSA reports 7,314 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in 2023, accounting for 18 percent of all traffic fatalities, or about 20 deaths per day.
When do most pedestrian accidents happen?
Most fatal pedestrian crashes happen in the dark. NHTSA reports 77 percent of pedestrian deaths in 2023 occurred in dark conditions, when drivers have reduced visibility.
Where do most pedestrian fatalities occur?
Per NHTSA, in 2023, 84 percent of pedestrian fatalities occurred in urban areas, and 74 percent happened away from intersections rather than at them.
What percentage of pedestrian deaths involve hit-and-run drivers?
NHTSA reports that in 2023, about 24 percent of pedestrians killed in traffic crashes were struck by hit-and-run drivers who left the scene.
How can pedestrians stay safer at night?
Wear light-colored or reflective clothing, carry a light, cross at marked crosswalks, and make eye contact with drivers before entering a travel lane.
Staying Informed and Getting Help
If you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian crash, Local Accident Reports provides free help, available 24/7, with requesting your police report and tracking down the agency that responded. Get in touch for support with your report.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Content reviewed by Hernan Beresnak, Lead Editor, Local Accident Reports.
The information provided by Local Accident Reports is for general informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Local Accident Reports is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation. Use of this website does not create an attorney-client relationship.
