Pedestrian deaths depressingly common

Oahu’s grim toll of pedestrian deaths is rising at an even faster rate than last year, which was already a terrible one.

Five people have been killed by cars while out walking or jogging so far in 2015, compared with two at this time last year. The most recent victim is a 49-year-old Mililani woman who was killed just blocks from her home, while in a crosswalk during her regular neighborhood jog.

Pedestrians face special peril on Oahu. Overall traffic deaths, which include motorists, motorcyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians and other victims, are relatively stable on the island. Eleven people have died so far this year compared to 10 during the same period of 2014. For pedestrians, the rate has more than doubled, which bodes ill for the rest of the year.

Drivers, be extra alert. No matter what mistakes a pedestrian might make on the road, you are the one wielding a deadly weapon.