Police See Big Spike In Number Of Pedestrians Being Struck By Cars On LA Streets

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Los Angeles police say the number of collisions involving pedestrians has increased by more than a third over the previous five years.

The reason? Distracted drivers and pedestrians not paying attention have contributed to the growing numbers, according to police.

"It's like you're taking a life in your own hands but you also have to take it as that and be like appropriately cautious at the same time," said Alex Hauptman, a pedestrian.

One of the steps being taken to combat the issue is the Vision Zero initiative launched by Mayor Eric Garcetti.

It combines education, LAPD enforcement, and prioritizing areas of the city that need safety improvements.

The goal is to have zero traffic deaths by the year 2025.

Rhonda Chatham says she feels as if she's taking her life in her hands when she steps off the curb.

"You try to make eye contact with the person that's driving so they see you," she said.