Lower gas prices are being cited as one reason behind an increase in pedestrian deaths.
A study released Tuesday by the Governors Highway Safety Association predicts the number of pedestrian fatalities in 2015 increased about 10 percent, which is the highest yearly increase since the annual Spotlight on Highway Safety Report began back in 1975.
The study said lower gas prices led to more drivers on the roads last year. Other factors cited include an increase in the number of Americans walking for health or economic reasons and the use of cell phones and other devices that distract both drivers and walkers.
The number of pedestrians killed accounts for about 15 percent of all traffic accidents nationally.
