

548. Why Is the U.S. So Good at Killing Pedestrians?
60 snips Jul 6, 2023
Kelsey Ralph, a transportation scholar from Rutgers University, and David Strayer, a psychology professor at the University of Utah, dive into the alarming rise of pedestrian deaths in the U.S. They explore the cultural implications of car-centric urban designs and advocate for systemic changes to improve safety. The discussion covers the dangers of distractions like cell phones while driving and highlights how societal behaviors, particularly during the pandemic, may exacerbate aggressive driving. Both guests envision a future with safer streets and enhanced pedestrian infrastructure.
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Rising Pedestrian Deaths
- The U.S. has a high rate of pedestrian deaths, exceeding 7,500 last year.
- The rate is rising, even with less driving during the pandemic.
Dangerous Street Design
- American streets are designed for speed and high traffic volume, increasing crash risks.
- Most crashes occur on arterial roads with businesses and driveways.
NYC Street Space Allocation
- In New York City, 76% of street space is dedicated to vehicles, while less than 1% is for bikes and buses.
- Transportation Alternatives advocates for rebalancing street space to better reflect actual usage.