Report shows pedestrian deaths are up in N.C. (Spectrum News)
North Carolina saw more people hit and killed by cars during the first half of 2024 compared to the same time period in 2023, according to a report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).
Nationally, however, the report, which projects drivers hit and killed 3,304 pedestrians on U.S. roads during that same time period, said incidents were down nearly 3%.
North Carolina is one of several states in the country to see an increase in pedestrian deaths.
Eric Zaverl, an urban design specialist with Sustain Charlotte, says he’s always aware of his surroundings when he’s walking around his neighborhood in the Queen City.
“I’m either looking left or right or behind me,” Zaverl said. “And making sure that if I’m in the intersection crossing, somebody is not turning and not paying attention.”