Nebraska Pedestrian Deaths on the Rise - FOX 42: Omaha News, Sports and Weather; kptm.com |

Nebraska Pedestrian Deaths on the Rise

Nicole Ebat

OMAHA(KPTM)--More Nebraskans are dying after getting hit by cars according to a new report from AAA.

Ten people in the state have died as of August 21. Half of those deaths were in Douglas County.

This time last year, three pedestrians had died. Seven died during all of 2011.

This is the first time Nebraska has had a double-digit pedestrian fatality rate since 2003.

Safety experts say electronic distractions can be a big risk to pedestrians walking near traffic.

"Stay off your cell phone, don't be texting while walking, it's very important to pay attention in the roadway," said Rose White with AAA.

Rob Jones with the Douglas County Sheriff's department says it's important that pedestrians look both ways before crossing and make sure cars are stopped before stepping onto the street.

They both say these may seem like common sense road rules, but the rise in pedestrian fatalities show more people need to follow them.