Key Takeaways:
– Recent trend shows that American trucks and SUVs have considerably increased in size.
– There is a concern that the larger hood sizes could pose a threat to pedestrians and cyclists.
– The last few years have been deadly for pedestrians in the US, with 2022 being the most fatal on record.
The Supersizing Trend of American SUVs and Trucks
The physical dimensions of American trucks and SUVs have witnessed a substantial growth in recent years. This trend was notably highlighted during the 2020 auto show in Chicago, where standing next to vehicle displays from GMC and others felt intimidating. Reasons for this growth are many, but one cannot deny these vehicles’ burgeoning sizes are setting a trend on the roads.
Speculations and fears that these oversized vehicles could increase the risk for vulnerable road users have been in discussion for some time. Now, tangible data is emerging to validate these concerns.
Record High Pedestrian Fatalities
Pedestrian safety on American roads has hit a low in recent years. Startlingly, 2022 was the deadliest year on record for US pedestrians. Though some states managed to reverse the frightening trend, others have seen an increase in pedestrian fatalities. It’s clear that this growing problem needs to be addressed urgently.
The Root Causes
Understanding the problem requires delving into its multifaceted causes. For several years, city planning has put the spotlight on car traffic, often neglecting pedestrians and cyclists. Consequently, our urban landscapes favor swift-moving vehicles, often leaving people trying to navigate these roads on foot or on bikes in vulnerable situations.
However, the problem isn’t solely rooted in city planning, the kind of cars we drive play a critical role too. The transition towards larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, not only take up more space on the roads but might also be contributing to the perilous environment for non-motorized road users.
In conclusion, transforming predominantly vehicle-centric environments into shared spaces, accommodating both vehicles and vulnerable road users, is urgently needed. While city planners need to reconsider their approach, vehicle manufacturers also need to reassess their move towards exploiting the market trend of supersized vehicles. Striking a balance between consumer desire and public safety will be a key challenge in mitigescating this rising problem. It’s high time to prioritize safety and equitability on our roads alongside progress and convenience.