Traffic fatalities in Delaware increased by 12 percent last year over 2011. According to the Office of Highway Safety, 116 people died due to motor vehicle accidents on First State roadways.
Spokesperson Alison Kirk says accidents involving the roads’ most vulnerable travelers account for much of the increase.
“Going up from 103 to 116, that's major increase. We mostly see that in pedestrian crashes and vulnerable users such as bicyclists and motorcycle riders. So that’s definitely going to be a focus for our office in the next coming year.”
Last year, accidents involving pedestrians increased by 37 percent over 2011 - a total of 30 fatalities. Kirk adds the majority of pedestrians killed were in New Castle County.
Kirk says that's prompted officials to consider new educational and outreach programs to increase awareness in the car and on the roadside alike.
“How do we get out there and start talking to people and getting the message out there, you know, look out for pedestrians and then also telling the pedestrians make sure you cross at the crosswalks, you’re not walking at night in total black clothing, make sure your visible to those motorists,” said Kirk.
Meanwhile, alcohol related deaths accounted for 46 percent of motor vehicle fatalities last year. Kirk adds that 32 percent of the total fatal crashes in the state were due to aggressive driving behavior.
