Pedestrian safety in North Carolina is at a crossroads in 2025, with fatalities showing a troubling persistence despite a modest national dip. While U.S. pedestrian deaths fell 4.3% in 2024 to 7,148—the second annual decline—they remain nearly 20% higher than 2016 levels, and early 2025 data suggests the trend could reverse without intervention. In NC, where over 180 pedestrians are killed yearly—representing 15% of all traffic fatalities—factors like age and zip code play outsized roles in vulnerability. This article dives into the rising fatalities, demographic disparities, and actionable steps for NC pedestrians to claim justice after crashes.

The National and NC Trend in Pedestrian Fatalities

Pedestrian deaths have surged over the past decade, rising 77% since 2010 compared to 25% for other traffic fatalities. 9 Nationally, the first half of 2024 saw 3,304 deaths—a 48% increase from a decade ago, though down 2.6% year-over-year. Factors include distracted driving (e.g., cellphones), larger vehicles like SUVs obscuring views, and impaired walking due to alcohol (suspected in 30% of NC fatal crashes).

In North Carolina, the crisis is acute: 2,070 pedestrians were injured in 2020 alone, with fatalities averaging 228 annually—up 54% since 2009. The Piedmont region (e.g., Charlotte, Raleigh) accounts for most incidents due to high traffic density, followed by coastal areas. Speed is a major culprit, contributing to 12% of fatal pedestrian crashes in NC. As of early 2025, states like Tennessee saw a 30% drop, but NC’s rates remain elevated, underscoring the need for localized advocacy.

Age Factors: Who Is Most at Risk?

Age profoundly influences pedestrian crash outcomes, with certain groups facing disproportionate dangers due to mobility, visibility, and behavioral factors. From 1975 to 2023, death rates declined for most ages except 20-44 (up 6%), while children under 13 saw a 93% drop.

• Seniors (65+): Comprising 18% of 2021 fatalities despite being 15% of the population, older adults are more vulnerable to fatal injuries from strikes due to fragility, slower walking speeds, and challenges judging vehicle gaps. In NC, age-related issues like curb-crossing difficulties amplify risks in urban crosswalks.

• Young Adults (20-44): This group’s rate rose since 2009, driven by nighttime walking (75% of fatalities occur after dark) and distractions like phones. In high-density NC zip codes, this demographic often navigates busy streets during commutes or nightlife.

• Teens and Children (Under 20): Declines here (71% for 13-19 since 1975) stem from better school zones and awareness campaigns, but impaired drivers still pose threats.

Zip Code Factors: Urban Hotspots and Disparities

Socioeconomic and infrastructural inequities make zip codes powerful predictors of risk. NC’s deadliest areas cluster in urban Piedmont zones with poor lighting, high speeds, and limited sidewalks—exacerbating fatalities in low-income or minority communities.

• High-Risk Zip Codes: Charlotte’s 28206 (near uptown) and Durham’s 27701 rank among NC’s most dangerous, with rates mirroring national hotspots like Pompano Beach, FL (9 deaths per 100,000). These areas see elevated crashes due to dense traffic and inadequate crosswalks. Raleigh’s 27601 similarly reports spikes from construction and impaired pedestrians.

• Safer Zip Codes: Durham’s suburban outskirts (e.g., 27703) and Plano, TX analogs in NC like Cary’s 27513 boast under 0.75 deaths per 100,000, thanks to better lighting and lower speeds.

• Equity Gaps: Low-income zip codes face 2-3x higher rates due to reliance on walking and subpar infrastructure. Nationally, 75% of fatalities occur at night, hitting underserved areas hardest.

Network Insight: If your crash involves cyclists sharing urban paths, check advocacy resources atbikinglawyers.com

Legal Implications for NC Pedestrian Claims

Under NC’s contributory negligence rule, even minor fault (e.g., jaywalking in a high-risk zip code) can bar recovery—making evidence crucial. The three-year statute of limitations starts from injury discovery, but age-related vulnerabilities (e.g., seniors’ delayed symptoms) may invoke the discovery rule. Successful claims often yield $50,000-$200,000, covering medical bills, lost wages, and pain—especially in zip code-specific suits against cities for infrastructure failures.

Steps to Protect Yourself and Claim Rights

1. Stay Visible: Use crosswalks, wear reflective gear (especially at night), and avoid distractions in risky zip codes.

2. Advocate Locally: Push for zip code improvements via NC’s Watch For Me NC program.

3. Document Crashes: Photos, witnesses, and police reports counter contributory defenses.

4. Seek Legal Help: Consult specialists for age-tailored claims; Hall & Dixon excels in pedestrian advocacy.

5. Report Trends: Use NCDOT data to highlight age/zip disparities for policy change.
   
   

With fatalities rising seven times faster than population growth, NC must address age and zip code inequities head-on—through better enforcement, infrastructure, and awareness.