The number of pedestrians killed on U.S. roads in 2018 hit the highest record in nearly three decades.  

Based on data during the first half of 2018 by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), its projected 6,227 pedestrians died. That number is up 4 percent from 2017, marking the highest recorded number since 1990.

"The alarm bells continue to sound on this issue; it’s clear we need to fortify our collective efforts to protect pedestrians and reverse the trend,” said GHSA Executive Director, Jonathan Adkins.

The report names the main causes as an increase of walkers, unfriendly infrastructure, speeding, distracted driving, alcohol and the number of SUVs on the roadways. Data also shows that 90 percent of pedestrian deaths from the last decade happened at night. 

New York State is projected to be ranked in the top six deadly states for pedestrians.

"Crossing the street should not be a death sentence," said report author Richard Retting. "We have a range of proven infrastructure, engineering, and behavioral strategies that we know can reduce pedestrian deaths. Critical improvements to road and vehicle design are being made, but take significant time and resources to implement."

The New York State Pedestrian Safety Action Plan is in place to reduce numbers.

The $110 million, five year initiative works toward low cost engineering improvements, enforcement strategies and education information sessions. The partnership includes the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, New York State Department of Health and New York State Department of Transportation.