In response to the growing number of pedestrian accidents across the country, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is pushing for changes in vehicle design and safety testing regulations, particularly targeting SUVs and pickup trucks. These larger vehicles are linked to a significantly higher number of pedestrian accidents due to their size and design.
"We will continue to work to make our roads safer for everyone and help protect vulnerable road users,” said NHTSA’s Deputy Administrator, Sophie Shulman, in a statement about the proposed changes.
But why are SUVs and pickups so dangerous for pedestrians? What specific changes is the NHTSA recommending? And how serious is the pedestrian accident problem nationwide, including here in Maine? The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein is here to help you understand the issue and your rights if you've been injured.
The hidden dangers of SUVs and pickup trucks for pedestrians
The NHTSA's recent push for new vehicle design and testing standards comes in response to troubling accident data showing that SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans—collectively known as multipurpose passenger vehicles—are disproportionately involved in fatal pedestrian accidents. These vehicles’ design characteristics make them particularly hazardous for pedestrians.
Due to their taller, heavier build and often blunt hood designs, these vehicles tend to strike pedestrians higher in the body, resulting in more severe or fatal injuries. The numbers tell the story: in 2022, multipurpose passenger vehicles accounted for 49 percent of all pedestrian fatalities, compared to 37 percent caused by passenger cars.
“We have a crisis of roadway deaths, and it’s even worse among vulnerable road users like pedestrians,” said Shulman, as reported by the Portland Press Herald.
Supporting these findings, the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) revealed that vehicles with hood heights over 40 inches are 45 percent more likely to be involved in fatal pedestrian accidents than cars with lower hoods.
Proposed NHTSA changes seek to protect pedestrians
The NHTSA is pushing for changes that would require manufacturers to prioritize pedestrian safety in the design and testing of SUVs, pickup trucks, and other large vehicles. The agency argues that current safety tests don’t adequately consider the impact these vehicles have on pedestrians, especially when it comes to mitigating fatal head injuries.
Under the proposed changes, vehicle manufacturers would need to implement more comprehensive testing that factors into how their designs affect pedestrians in the event of a collision. The NHTSA estimates that these modifications could save 67 lives annually, many of which are lost due to severe head injuries caused by high-impact collisions with taller vehicles.
Pedestrian deaths hit record highs
Rising pedestrian fatalities have sparked urgent calls for action. According to the IIHS and NHTSA data, 2022 was the deadliest year for pedestrians in over four decades, with 7,522 deaths nationwide. This alarming figure marks the highest number of pedestrian fatalities since 1981.
Pedestrian fatalities in Maine have also reached record highs, mirroring national trends. In 2022, Maine reported 21 pedestrian deaths—the highest number in over a decade, based on NHTSA data. This marks a staggering 90% increase compared to 2013 when 11 pedestrian deaths occurred statewide.
Why You Need a Maine Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrian accident cases in Maine may seem clear-cut, especially when a driver is at fault. However, insurance companies often fight hard to minimize or deny compensation to injury victims. Navigating this process without an attorney can leave you at a disadvantage.
At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, our team understands the complexities involved and is committed to fighting for your rights. With case results that include a $3.75 million settlement for a car accident victim, we know what it takes to get meaningful results for our clients.
Put your trust in a law firm that knows how to fight for injured Mainers. Schedule a free case evaluation with a dedicated pedestrian accident attorney today. With seven offices across Maine, we’re ready to help. Plus, we work on a contingency fee basis—so you pay nothing unless we win your case.
