In Yucatán, pedestrians are at an increased risk of being involved in traffic accidents. According to data from the last 13 years (2011-2024), more than a thousand pedestrians have lost their lives while trying to cross streets, avenues, and highways.
René Flores Ayora, a traffic engineer, reported that between 2011 and 2024, there were 1,018 pedestrian fatalities in the state. This translates to an average of over 70 deaths per year, with some years seeing higher numbers. For example, last year saw 41 pedestrians killed (15.64% of the total), while in 2022, there were 37 fatalities (16% of the total).
So far this year, 15 pedestrians have died, accounting for 9.31% of the total fatalities. According to Big Data analysis by Flores Ayora, the forecasted number of pedestrian deaths during the current vacation season is expected to be met at a rate of 77%.
A recent incident on Saturday increased the death toll from traffic accidents in the holiday period to 28, with 20 motorcyclists, three pedestrians, three cyclists, and two drivers involved. This highlights the need for caution when traveling during this time.
The occasion of World Pedestrian Day, which was commemorated last week, serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
The data highlights the alarming rate at which pedestrians are losing their lives on Yucatán’s roads, with an average of over 70 deaths per year in the last 13 years. The recent increase in fatalities during the holiday period is a pressing concern that needs to be addressed urgently. By promoting road safety awareness and education, we can work towards reducing the number of pedestrian fatalities and making our roads safer for everyone.
World Pedestrian Day is observed every year on September 16th to honor Brigitte Driscoll, a mother who lost her life in London in 1896 after being run over by a vehicle. Her tragic story serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to be more vigilant.
