A recent study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) suggests that 25 mph speed limits in areas with high pedestrian traffic may be too high, putting pedestrians at risk of serious injury and death. The organization found that taller vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, can compound the risk of injury at higher speeds.
The study, which reviewed data from over 200 crashes involving pedestrians, showed that the point of impact on a pedestrian’s body is determined by the front-end height of the vehicle. To estimate injury risk, researchers used vehicle model photos to determine the height of the hood’s front edge.
According to IIHS President David Harkey, “a small increase in crash speed can really ramp up the danger to a pedestrian.” The study found that even at speeds as low as 15 mph, the risk of serious injury was above 10%. This suggests that even 25 mph limits may be too high for areas with high pedestrian traffic.
The IIHS is calling on policymakers and traffic engineers to consider the makeup of the US fleet when setting speed limits and implementing traffic calming measures. The study’s findings highlight the need for a more nuanced approach to road safety, one that takes into account the specific risks associated with different types of vehicles and road environments.
Source: https://eu.freep.com/story/money/cars/2024/12/10/insurance-institute-highway-safety-study-pedestrians-crash-risk-suvs-trucks/76862923007