AAA Study: Arizona Pedestrian Deaths Nearly Double the National Rate
PHOENIX (Nov.12, 2025) – Pedestrians in Arizona are nearly twice as likely to be killed in a road collision as the rest of the country, according to a recent study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. It was one of many alarming findings noted in the study that showed roads across the country have generally become more dangerous in recent years.
AAA researchers collected traffic data from 2018 to 2022 from benchmark states, including Arizona, to understand differences in crash outcomes across demographic and geographic groups.
One of the main findings of the 136-page study was that “Arizona emerged as a state with high fatality rates, surpassing both national averages and those of the other states [in the study].”
Key findings:
- Pedestrian fatalities on the rise. Between 2018 and 2022, male pedestrian fatality rates in Arizona increased from 4.9 to 6.0 per 100,000, while the female rate rose from 2.1 to 2.6, significantly exceeding national figures, which rose from 2.8 to 3.2 for males and remained stable at around 1.2 to 1.3 for females.
- Male bicyclists are especially vulnerable. By 2022, the male cyclist fatality rate in Arizona reached 1.1 male bicyclist fatalities per 100,000 males, while the female rate stood at 0.279 female bicyclist fatalities per 100,000 females.
- Danger across the board. Arizona was among the states that experienced the highest percentage increases in road fatalities over the research period. Arizona saw a 27.5% rise from 2018 to 2022 in all road deaths.
“The tragic reality is that many of these crashes were almost certainly preventable,” said AAA Mountain West Group spokesperson Julian Paredes. “Too often drivers get distracted or engage in unsafe driving behavior. The dangers highlighted in this study emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant and attentive every time you get behind the wheel.”
How did we get here?
Researchers noted geographic differences that may have contributed to Arizona’s rising fatality rates compared to other states.
Part of the issue, according to the study, is Arizona’s vehicle-orientated road design in which wider roads encourage higher speeds, and a lack of separated pedestrian infrastructure creates inherently dangerous conditions for non-motorists.
Similarly, the lack of owning a car led to vulnerable travel patterns as individuals traveled longer distances to reach jobs which in turn led to a greater exposure to potential danger.
“This study highlights specific needs in Arizona for addressing road safety,” Paredes said. “It is a core mission of AAA to work with first responders and legislators to find the best ways to create safer roads for everyone.”
What can people do?
- Be Visible. Always make yourself visible to drivers and establish eye contact before crossing the road.. This is critical at night, in low-light conditions such as dusk or dawn or in inclement weather. According to NHTSA’s National Center for Statistics and Analysis, 32 percent of all pedestrian fatalities occur between 8 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.
- Stay Alert – Avoid Distractions. Distractions are everywhere and becoming increasingly difficult to avoid. As a pedestrian, your eyes and ears are your best safety tools. Stay alert and watch out.
- Put down your phone. Smartphones and handheld electronic devices are a daily part of life, but they take your eyes off of the road and create distractions. Avoid wearing headphones to stay aware of your surroundings.
- Follow the Rules. Know and obey all traffic rules, signs and signals. By understanding the rules drivers must follow, you can better anticipate vehicle movements and increase your safety.
- Walk in Safe Places. Use crosswalks when crossing the street. If a crosswalk is unavailable, be sure to find the most well-lit spot on the road to cross and wait for a long enough gap in traffic to make it safely across the street.
About AAA Mountain West Group
AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Nevada, Northern California, Montana, and Utah. AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.