Here, an Uber Technologies Inc. self-driving Volvo sports utility vehicles (SUV) sits on the road after a high-impact crash in Tempe, Arizona, U.S., in March 2017. Uber's self-driving cars were back on public roads three days after this crash. (Photo: Mark Beach/Fresco News via Bloomberg)

News this week of what is likely the first pedestrian fatality caused by an autonomous vehicle illuminated ongoing safety concerns around emerging driverless vehicle technology — and rightfully so.

A self-driving car from Uber hit and killed a woman in Tempe, Arizona, on Sunday, March 18, 2018. The woman was reportedly crossing a road outside of a crosswalk when the vehicle, operating in autonomous mode under the supervision of a human safety driver, struck her, according to the Tempe Police Department.

Additional details from this incident are not yet available. But a look at pedestrian deaths in general is illuminating.

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Christine G. Barlow, CPCU

Christine G. Barlow, CPCU, is Executive Editor of FC&S Expert Coverage Interpretation, a division of National Underwriter Company and ALM. Christine has over thirty years’ experience in the insurance industry, beginning as a claims adjuster then working as an underwriter and underwriting supervisor handling personal lines. Christine regularly presents and moderates webinars on a variety of topics and is an experienced presenter.