Number of Del. pedestrian deaths rose last year

A new analysis of crash data shows pedestrian deaths in Delaware rose last year from 2011.

Many deaths occurred either on U.S. 40 or U.S. 13. Most victims were men, middle-aged or trying to cross the street at night.

 

A working group of engineers, educators and others has been studying ways to reduce pedestrian fatalities.

Ideas discussed include reflective wristbands or backpacks, enforcement campaigns in targeted areas and installing a barrier along the medians.

Sgt. Paul Shavack, a state police spokesman, tells The News Journal of Wilmington that the goal is to get to zero deaths, even if that’s not likely.

The analysis shows that pedestrian deaths statewide rose by 6.4 percent last year to 30, compared with 19 in 2011. Five have died so far this year.