Pedestrian deaths in the United States increased 72 % from 2009 to 2021, while safety education programs remain insufficient, according to the June 2026 “Dangerous by Design 2026” report.
The “Dangerous by Design 2026” report, released in June 2026 by Smart Growth America, documents a continued rise in pedestrian fatalities and identifies gaps in education and infrastructure that contribute to the trend [1][4]. The report covers national data from 2009 through 2021, noting a 10.5 % increase in pedestrian deaths between 2020 and 2021, reaching 6,520 fatalities that year [3]. Urban environments accounted for 68 % of those deaths, and only 60 % of U.S. roads provide adequate sidewalks [3][4].
Smart Growth America, a nonprofit advocacy group focused on community design, authored the report and highlighted that Congress has not enacted comprehensive measures to address the growing safety crisis [1]. The organization calls the lack of coordinated pedestrian‑safety education a critical shortfall, especially in states identified as high‑risk based on fatality rates, though the report does not list those states by name [1][4].
Scope of the Pedestrian Safety Crisis
The report indicates that pedestrian fatalities have risen 72 % since 2009, a period during which overall traffic deaths have declined [4]. The increase reflects both higher exposure to traffic in dense urban settings and insufficient protective infrastructure. Data show that 68 % of pedestrian deaths occurred in urban areas, where foot traffic is greatest [3]. The report also notes that 60 % of U.S. roadways lack adequate sidewalks, limiting safe walking routes for pedestrians [3].
Between 2020 and 2021, pedestrian deaths grew by 10.5 %, reaching 6,520 fatalities nationwide [3]. The report attributes this spike to a combination of factors, including higher vehicle speeds, limited crossing opportunities, and inadequate public awareness of safe walking practices. The highest‑risk periods were identified as evening hours, when reduced visibility and increased traffic volume intersect [3].
The report recommends that federal and state agencies adopt standardized education modules that cover safe crossing techniques, speed reduction strategies, and the importance of sidewalk infrastructure [1][4].
Education and Policy Gaps Identified
Pedestrian Fatalities Rise 72% Since 2009, Education Efforts Lag in High‑Risk States
Smart Growth America’s analysis points to a shortfall in pedestrian‑safety education programs, particularly in states with the highest fatality rates [1]. The organization criticizes Congress for failing to fund or mandate comprehensive safety curricula in schools, driver‑licensing programs, and community outreach initiatives [1]. The report recommends that federal and state agencies adopt standardized education modules that cover safe crossing techniques, speed reduction strategies, and the importance of sidewalk infrastructure [1][4].
The “Dangerous by Design 2026” report also outlines policy actions, including the adoption of Vision Zero frameworks, increased funding for sidewalk construction, and the implementation of lower speed limits in high‑pedestrian‑traffic zones [1][4]. However, the report notes that, as of its release, few states have enacted legislation aligning with these recommendations [1].
The findings have immediate relevance for educational institutions in high‑risk areas. Schools lacking pedestrian‑safety curricula may need to integrate new lesson plans to comply with emerging best practices [1]. Universities and community colleges that host commuter students are urged to assess campus walkways and collaborate with local governments to improve sidewalk connectivity [4].
For educators, the report provides a data‑driven basis to request additional resources from school districts and state education agencies. The highlighted gaps suggest that teachers may need to incorporate safety education into health, physical education, or civics classes [1]. Institutions that partner with transportation departments can leverage the report’s recommendations to secure grants for infrastructure improvements [4].
Policymakers at the municipal and state level are presented with a clear set of metrics—such as the 60 % sidewalk coverage rate and the 72 % fatality increase—to justify budget allocations for pedestrian safety projects [3][4]. The report’s emphasis on education underscores the need for coordinated efforts between schools, public health officials, and transportation planners [1].
Key Facts
Impact on Students, Educators, and Institutions The findings have immediate relevance for educational institutions in high‑risk areas.
What: Pedestrian deaths rose 72 % since 2009; education efforts are insufficient in high‑risk states.
When: Data cover 2009‑2021; report released June 2026.
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Impact: Students and educators in affected areas must adopt new safety curricula; policymakers are urged to fund infrastructure and education initiatives.
Sources
Dangerous by Design 2026 shows Congress is failing on safety – Smart Growth America Blog
Dangerous by Design 2026 (PDF) – Smart Growth America
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