Auto-Pedestrian Collisions
San Jose historically has a high percentage of auto/pedestrian fatal collisions.
| SAN JOSE TRAFFIC FATALITIES | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOTAL TRAFFIC FATALITIES: | 41 | 24 | 42 | 30 | 33 | 27 | 32 |
| PEDESTRIAN RELATED DEATHS: | 14 | 9 | 17 | 16 | 12 | 7 | 20 |
* As of December 15, 2011
Always use the cross-walk... and LOOK both ways before crossing the street.
San Jose reported: 20 auto/pedestrian fatal collisions in 2011.
Key Factors in Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities
- Jaywalking / not crossing at controlled intersections
- Pedestrian inattention
- Night time / visibility – dark, non reflective clothing
- Alcohol / drug influence
- Pedestrians crossing non-residential, multi-lane roadways
An analysis of traffic fatalities that occurred in 2011 revealed some disturbing patterns. Unfortunately, 2011 proved to be a sad and busy year for the Traffic Investigations Unit. The number of collisions resulting in fatalities rose from 27 in 2010 to 32 in 2011. In 2011 the relatively high incidence of pedestrian related deaths continued a tragic upward trend of traffic related fatalities.
A total of twenty pedestrians were killed in 2011, showing a 181% increase when compared to the seven fatalities that occurred in 2010. In most of these cases the pedestrian was jaywalking or crossing mid block rather than crossing the street at an intersection where signal lights or other control devices were present.
Over the past several years, alcohol and/or narcotic influence of either the driver of the vehicle or the pedestrian have played a role in a significant number of the deaths. These unfortunate and preventable incidents are occurring in all areas of the City, however, the majority of fatalities appear to be occurring on busier multi-lane roadways as compared to residential streets. A high percentage of the accidents occurred during darkness. Inattention of pedestrians also seems to be a very prevalent factor when examining these accidents.
When driving a motor vehicle it is important to stay focused on the roadway, pay attention to changing conditions occurring around you, and watch for pedestrians. Pedestrians must be responsible and learn to cross the street at controlled intersections where signal lights or other control devices are present. Whether a pedestrian or driver, a fatal traffic collision is a traumatic - emotional and life-altering event, impacting the families and friends of all those involved.
The purpose of this website is to educate and inform the residents of San Jose regarding traffic related issues. The Traffic Investigations Unit encourages everyone to learn from this information, slow down and pay attention when driving or walking on roadways.
