Report: 2021 saw most annual pedestrian deaths in about 40 years

Experts are examining new technology to keep you safe on the roads, as new data shows just how dangerous it can be when you’re behind the wheel in the dark.

Many drivers will be hitting the road quite a bit this month, taking vacations and visiting family. The time change can make for some dangerous driving conditions.

From deer to pedestrians crossing in front of your vehicle, there are several safety reminders necessary this time of year when it gets so dark, so early.

“It’s a really good time to remind ourselves of some of the hazards that are out there on the roadway that we need to be aware of,” said Insurance Institute for Highway Safety President David Harkey.

In fact, the last quarter of the year is when IIHS sees deer crashes peak.

“You really need to be able to see them in enough time to stop,” said Harkey.

Data estimates from the Governors Highway Safety Association last year show 7,485 pedestrian deaths, which is the most in a single year in four decades. Of these, 75% occured at night or in the dark.

To help reduce this, IIHS started rating headlights on vehicles back in 2016.

“We started rating them to see how far down the road they provided visibility to the driver,” Harkey explained. “At the same time, making sure that the headlights are not producing too much glare for the oncoming driver.”

The group is also looking into automatic emergency braking systems. These allow a car to essentially stop when it detects an obstacle ahead. However, IIHS said the technology still needs improvement to use in the dark.

“We’re doing some preliminary tests on that now, trying to determine if that technology can be effective,” said Harkey. “The verdict is still out, but that might be a technology for the future.”

In the meantime, no matter how tricked out your car may or may not be, Harkey has a message for drivers.

“We can have all of the collision avoidance technology in the world, (but) we’re not going to prevent every crash, and so it’s really important that you buckle up and stay safe,” he added.

To check out the IIHS headlight and vehicle ratings, click here.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

Four men arrested, accused of stealing $10,000 worth of electronics from local Best Buy Police said an organized group of thieves stole thousands of dollars worth of electronics at the Best Buy in Bethel Park along Alicia Drive Thursday afternoon.

©2022 Cox Media Group