While most types of traffic deaths have decreased in numbers, pedestrian deaths have risen in the first half of 2010. The Governors Highway Safety Association reported that 1,891 pedestrians were killed through June of 2010, compared to 1,884 for the same period in 2009 for a .04% increase.

Overall road deaths were down 8% for that period. Eighteen states reported increases in pedestrian deaths, with the problem being worse in high density states.

If the trend continues through the year, it will mark the first time in 5 years that pedestrian fatalities have risen. Some state officials blame the problem on distractions while driving caused by cell phones and music players. The NHTSA has unveiled a rating system to encourage certain safety technologies to prevent such occurrences.

It is worth mentioning however, that approximately 75% of pedestrian deaths occur in urban areas and at non-intersection locations, as in instances of jaywalking.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Detroit News