Walking in Texas can be a risky activity, especially if you live in Galveston. According to a recent study by ValuePenguin, Galveston is the most dangerous city for pedestrians in Texas, with 3.00 deaths per 10,000 residents from 2016 to 2020. The study analyzed data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and ranked the cities and roads where pedestrian fatalities were most likely to occur.
Why are highways so deadly for pedestrians?
One of the main factors that contribute to the high rate of pedestrian fatalities in Texas is the prevalence of highways and interstates. The study found that more than one-third (37.6%) of pedestrian deaths in Texas occurred on interstates and U.S. highways, while another 28.8% happened on state routes or farm-to-market roads. These roads tend to carry large volumes of traffic at high speeds, making it difficult for pedestrians to cross safely or avoid collisions.
The study also identified the specific highways and interstates that had the most pedestrian fatalities in Texas. Interstate 35, which runs from Laredo to Oklahoma, accounted for 9.9% of all pedestrian deaths in the state from 2016 to 2020. Interstate 10, which stretches from El Paso to Florida, was responsible for another 4.5%. Other dangerous roads include Interstate 45 in Houston, Interstate 35 in Austin, and Loop 12 in Dallas.
Which cities are the most dangerous for pedestrians?
The study also ranked the cities in Texas based on the number of pedestrian fatalities per 10,000 residents. Among the largest municipalities in Texas, Galveston topped the list with 3.00 deaths per 10,000 residents, followed by Beaumont with 2.71 and Dallas with 2.20. These cities have a high density of highways and interstates, as well as a lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and signals.
On the other hand, some of the safest cities for pedestrians in Texas are Plano, Frisco, and McKinney, which had less than 0.5 deaths per 10,000 residents. These cities are located in the suburbs of Dallas and have more walkable neighborhoods and lower traffic volumes.
How can pedestrian safety be improved?
The study also provided some recommendations on how to reduce the risk of pedestrian fatalities in Texas. Some of the suggestions include:
- Improving the design and maintenance of roads and sidewalks to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.
- Increasing the enforcement and awareness of traffic laws and speed limits to prevent reckless driving and impaired driving.
- Educating the public and the media about the causes and consequences of pedestrian accidents and the importance of safe walking habits.
- Investing in public transportation and alternative modes of transportation to reduce the reliance on cars and the demand for parking spaces.
Conclusion
Pedestrian safety is a serious issue in Texas, especially in cities and roads with high traffic volumes and speeds. Galveston is the most dangerous city for pedestrians in Texas, according to a recent study by ValuePenguin. The study also identified the highways and interstates that had the most pedestrian fatalities in the state, as well as the factors that contribute to the high rate of pedestrian deaths. The study also offered some solutions on how to improve pedestrian safety and prevent future accidents.