The case files of the Dade County Medical Examiner Department of Metropolitan Dade County were used to study pedestrian fatalities. Epidemiologic data are correlated and compared with those of other studies. The 469 cases accounted for 96% of all pedestrian fatalities and 28% of all vehicular-related deaths during the five years of the study. About 70% have been male and 30% female. Toxicologically, the blood alcohol level at autopsy was negative on 54% of cases. In 23% the blood alcohol concentration was not determined. Over 0 but under 0.1 mg/% the blood alcohol level has been in 5% of cases. Over 0.1 mg/% have been 17% of cases. The results of the urine analysis for drugs have been positive in 15%, negative in 44% and unascertained in 40%. In these series however a large number of victims were over 70 years or under 12 years old.
Abstract