Good news from the world of transportation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released preliminary estimates for the Fatality Analysis Reporting System that there has been a decline in traffic fatalities for 2019. Even better news, this marks a decrease in traffic fatalities for three years in a row. An estimated 36,120 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2019. A decline of about 440 people from the 36,560 that died in 2018. Year-over-year, this number represents an estimated 1.2 percent decrease in total deaths. Additionally, this fatality rate will become the second lowest recorded by the NHTSA (once estimates are finalized).
Grants for Traffic Safety Programs
Also attributing to the decline, back in February 2020, the NHTSA released $562 million in grants for safety programs in all 50 states. “These highway safety grants will help save lives by addressing impaired driving, promoting seat belt use, improving pedestrian and bicyclist safety and funding other important traffic safety efforts,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.
Most of the highway fatalities in 2018 (36,560) were related to behavioral issues. Examples include:
- Speeding
- Alcohol and Drug-Impaired Driving
- Distraction
- Motorcycle Safety
- Seat Belt Usage.
The grants help state and local law enforcement strengthen the highway laws and educate the public. Ultimately, this creates safer roads and contributes to the overall decrease in traffic fatalities. Technology in newer vehicles also prevents or reduces the number of crashes.
Although the country has seen a decrease in traffic fatalities three years in a row, more pedestrians and bicyclists were killed on U.S. roads in 2019 than previous years. With a growing number of pedestrians and bicyclists in metropolitan areas, safety advocates attribute fatalities to roadways poorly designed growing pedestrians. Suggestions include better roadway design, slow-driving zones and educational approaches. “More work remains to be done to make our roads safer for everyone,” says Choa.
Call HPS Law Today
If you have questions regarding a car accident, contact HS Law today. The first consultation is absolutely free. Call 404-400-1175 to discuss your options.
