Tucson, Arizona (KVOA) – According to a recent report by the Governor’s Road Safety Association, Arizona has the second highest pedestrian mortality rate in the nation.

Arizona had a total of 307 pedestrian fatalities last year, an 18% increase from the previous year, according to the report.

Twenty-two of them died here in Tucson, according to the Tucson Police Department. There have already been 13 deaths this year, and 2023 is still five months away.

300 may not seem like much compared to California’s 1,100 pedestrian deaths and Florida’s 800.

However, when comparing death rates based on state population size, the death rate was the second highest at 4.17 deaths per 100,000.

Today’s cars and trucks are safer than ever before, even behind the wheel. But for those above…

This speed can have many reasons for both pedestrians and drivers.

We spoke to the Tucson Police Department about what needs to be done to bring this rate down in the state.

“We all have to follow the rules, especially pedestrians, and encourage everyone to use the crosswalks. If you are actually crossing a crosswalk, make sure you make eye contact with the driver. Do not assume that people are looking at you, as many people are distracted. Drivers also have a lot of responsibility because they have to be aware of the unexpected while driving,” said Sergeant David Fritsch.

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Wherever you are in the city, whether you are walking or driving, don’t assume you are safe because you have priority.

Please pay attention to your surroundings and cooperate in reducing the mortality rate.