Pedestrian fatalities in motor vehicle accidents, including motorcycle crashes, are on the rise across the nation, according to a recent study. Richard Retting, one of the study’s co-authors, said that the results were “alarming.”

Researchers examined data that was supplied by all 50 states, including New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

The study, which was conducted on behalf of the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), found that 2,368 pedestrians were killed in vehicle crashes during the first six months of 2015. Over the same time period in 2014, there were 2,232 pedestrian fatalities. In terms of percentage, pedestrian deaths went up by approximately 10 percent from 2014 to 2015. This represented the single-largest increase in pedestrian deaths since the U.S. established a fatality reporting system in 1975.

Why Are There More Pedestrian Deaths Now?

Safety experts believe that falling gas prices have made it easier for people to drive to and from work and generally use roadways, resulting in a subsequent increase in auto accidents and accident-related deaths.

Another reason for the alarming numbers, suggested Retting, is the recent economic recovery in the U.S. Retting specifically noted that an improved economy “generally coincides with higher traffic fatality rates because of the increase in discretionary income, potentially leading to extra vacations and more travel at night and on weekends.”

Yet another possible explanation for the rise in serious motor vehicle accidents is that parents who have additional disposable income these days are more likely to have teenage children who drive. These teen drivers are typically considered to be the most dangerous drivers on NJ roadways.

For additional information about the reasons for the rise in pedestrian deaths, view the AOL.com article, “US Pedestrian Deaths from Car Crashes Surge.”

If you or someone you love sustained an injury, or was killed, in a motorcycle accident, you should contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who is passionate about fighting for the rights of riders. Andrew S. Prince of Team Law will work tirelessly to secure you the maximum compensation possible in your personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.