New York State study finds 44% of pedestrian deaths involve alcohol or drugs

A retrospective analysis of the Fatality Analysis Reporting System examined 771 pedestrian deaths in New York State between 2018 and 2020. Substance use—alcohol, drugs, or both—was detected in 338 cases, representing 44% of fatalities. Of these, 18% involved drugs only, 14% involved alcohol only, and 12% involved both substances. The deaths were disproportionately male (63%) and most common among adults aged 65 and older (34%). Incidents peaked between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., with the highest number occurring on Saturday evenings. Pedestrians who had used drugs were more likely to be struck while on the roadway rather than at a crosswalk. Researchers suggest that impairment may contribute to riskier crossing behavior and reduced visibility, and they call for strategies promoting safe drinking and travel for impaired individuals.

The study highlights a largely overlooked factor in pedestrian safety—substance use by pedestrians—contrasting with traditional campaigns that focus on drinking and driving. It underscores the need for targeted public‑health interventions and further research into polysubstance effects on pedestrian risk.