Rocio Villalobos 
McAllen- Last year, Texas was one of the five states that accounted for nearly half of all pedestrian deaths in the United States.
Over the past few decades, pedestrian deaths have risen by 35 percent, making 2018 the deadliest year for pedestrians since 1990 according to a new report by The Governors Highway Safety Association.
In the report, Texas was ranked the third-highest state by number of fatalities.
While some factors contributing to the accidents cannot be avoided, Bilkis Olazaran from the McAllen Traffic Operations Department said being alert is key.
“Obey all traffic laws,” said Bilkis Olazaran, a traffic designer for the city of McAllen. “There are signs that are there for a reason, and if a driver or a cyclist or a pedestrian does not obey it, there will be some confusion as to who has the right of way.”
A few of the factors listed by researchers for the increase include a rise in SUV drivers, which can cause severe injuries, speeding, distracted driving and nighttime crossings away from intersections.
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