Tennessee Sees Sharpest Increase in Pedestrian, Bicycle Deaths Since 1984

Tennessee officials have recorded more pedestrian and bicycle deaths in 2015 than in any other year in the past two decades.

WPLN reports that statistics show 120 pedestrians and bicyclists had died as of Dec. 29. By comparison, there were 93 deaths in 2014.

The number surprised and concerned Mary-Pat Teague, who is chairwoman of Metro Nashville’s Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.

Teague and others are working on ways to make streets safer for bicyclists and pedestrians.

Tennessee Highway Patrol Lt. Bill Miller says the safety of pedestrians and those using non-motorized vehicles will be a primary focus for the agency next year.

According to federal data available since 1982, the highest number of pedestrian and bicycle deaths were recorded in 1984 when 145 people died.

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