New Data Shows Increase in SUV Accidents that Kill Pedestrians Who Might Have Survived
For years, traffic safety experts have warned that America’s growing preference for larger SUVs and pickup trucks has come with an unintended consequence: more deadly SUV accidents involving pedestrians.
Now, a major data analysis published by The New York Times provides compelling evidence that many pedestrians who are struck by today’s larger SUVs may have survived if they had been hit by a smaller vehicle. The investigation estimates that between 200 and 400 pedestrian deaths each year could have been prevented had vehicle designs remained similar to those of the early 2000s.
For Florida—a state with busy roadways, year-round tourism, and one of the nation’s highest rates of pedestrian fatalities—these findings are especially concerning.
At Avera & Smith, we’ve represented Florida families devastated by serious pedestrian accidents for decades. While every crash is unique, we’ve seen firsthand how collisions involving larger SUVs and trucks often result in catastrophic injuries that permanently change lives.
What new research found on SUV accidents
The New York Times analyzed millions of crash records, vehicle registration data, and vehicle design measurements to understand why pedestrian fatalities continue to rise despite advances in vehicle safety. Their investigation identified two major design changes that make modern SUVs more dangerous for pedestrians.
- Taller front ends increase fatal injuries: Today’s SUVs have significantly higher hood heights than vehicles sold twenty years ago. When a smaller passenger car strikes a pedestrian, the person is more likely to roll onto the hood, allowing the vehicle to absorb some of the impact.
However, larger SUVs behave differently. Their taller, flatter front ends increase the likelihood of knowing pedestrians forward and underneath the vehicle, which increases the risk of severe head trauma and fatal injuries.
- Larger blind spots make pedestrians harder to see: Modern SUVs and pickup trucks also have higher seating positions, larger front pillars (A-pillars), and bigger hoods. These design changes create larger blind zones immediately in front of the vehicle.
The New York Times found that visibility has worsened dramatically in many popular SUVs and pickup trucks, making it easier for drivers to overlook pedestrians—particularly children, cyclists, and people crossing at intersections.
The alarming statistics of SUV accidents and pedestrian deaths
According to the investigation:
- More than 3,000 pedestrian deaths between 2016 and 2024 may have been linked to increasing vehicle hood heights.
- Every additional inch of hood height increased the odds of a pedestrian fatality by approximately 2.8%.
- Researchers estimate 200 to 400 lives could be saved each year if vehicle front-end designs resembled those from the early 2000s.
These findings build upon previous research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which has consistently found that SUVs are more likely than passenger cars to cause fatal injuries when they strike pedestrians.
Why this study matters to Florida drivers
Florida consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for pedestrians. Heavy traffic, rapid population growth, tourism, and year-round outdoor activity mean pedestrians share the road with millions of vehicles every day.
When those vehicles are increasingly larger SUVs and pickup trucks, the consequences become even more severe. Pedestrian crashes commonly occur:
- At intersections
- In crosswalks
- In parking lots
- Along busy commercial corridors
- In residential neighborhoods
Many victims are simply crossing the street, walking to work, or exercising when their lives change forever.
What Avera & Smith has seen regarding SUV accidents and pedestrian deaths
At Avera & Smith, we’ve represented pedestrians and families injured in serious vehicle collisions throughout Florida for more than 70 years.
Although every accident is different, one trend has become increasingly clear: crashes involving large SUVs and pickup trucks frequently result in more severe injuries than those involving smaller passenger vehicles.
Victims often suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Multiple fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death
These cases require immediate investigation, preservation of evidence, accident reconstruction when appropriate, and experienced legal representation to ensure victims are not left paying the financial price for another driver’s negligence.
Frequently asked questions
Are SUVs more dangerous to pedestrians than cars?
Yes. Multiple studies have found that SUVs and pickup trucks are more likely to cause fatal injuries than smaller passenger vehicles because of their higher front ends, increased weight, and reduced driver visibility. Recent research estimates that taller hood designs have contributed to thousands of preventable pedestrian deaths in recent years.
Why are pedestrian accidents increasing?
Experts believe several factors contribute to rising pedestrian fatalities, including larger vehicles, distracted driving, speeding, increased traffic volume, and roadway designs that prioritize vehicles over pedestrians. The recent New York Times analysis also highlights vehicle design as a significant factor.
Can I sue if I was injured in a SUV accident in Florida?
If a driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Every case is different, so it’s important to consult an experienced Florida pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Avera & Smith protects Florida pedestrians
Call 800-654-4659 to speak with our attorneys for free
If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident involving an SUV or other motor vehicle, the attorney you choose can have a lasting impact on your recovery.
For more than 70 years, Avera & Smith has fought for injured clients throughout North Central Florida, helping victims recover compensation after car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle crashes, pedestrian accidents, wrongful death cases, and other serious personal injury claims. Our experienced legal team knows how to hold negligent drivers and insurance companies accountable so you can focus on healing.
When you choose Avera & Smith, you gain advocates with the experience and trial credentials to stand up to even the largest insurance companies. Partners Mark Avera and Jennifer Cates Lester are Board Certified in Civil Trial Law by The Florida Bar—a distinction earned by fewer than 5% of Florida attorneys. Insurance companies know which law firms are prepared to take cases to trial, and that reputation can make a meaningful difference during settlement negotiations.
Request a free case review through our online form or call 800-654-4659 to speak with one of our attorneys.