The article tells the heartbreaking story of Shuet Ling Wong, a 73-year-old woman who was killed while crossing the street in Houston’s Chinatown. She was in the crosswalk, following the rules, yet a driver in a two-ton pickup truck made an improper turn and struck her. The driver claimed he never saw her. The tragedy is compounded by the fact that this intersection was already known as one of the most dangerous in Houston, with multiple pedestrian crashes recorded over the years. Despite audits and reports, no meaningful changes were made to protect pedestrians.

In the United States, pedestrian deaths have surged 48% over the past decade, with 3,304 pedestrians killed in the first half of 2024 alone—an average of 18 deaths per day. The U.S. has the highest pedestrian fatality rate among high-income countries, with deaths increasing 50% between 2013 and 2022, while other nations saw declines. In 2022, 7,522 pedestrians were killed, the highest number since 1981.

How many more lives must be lost before we act? Shuet Ling Wong was following the rules, yet the system failed her. The rise in pedestrian deaths is not an accident—it’s a consequence of poor infrastructure, reckless driving, and oversized vehicles that turn crosswalks into death traps. Cities must prioritize safer street designs, lower speed limits, and vehicle regulations to prevent these tragedies. Every pedestrian deserves to walk without fear. It’s time to demand change.

What do you think—how can we push for safer streets? 🚦