The good news is U.S. traffic deaths have fallen for the third straight year, even as road use has increased. The news comes from recently released preliminary government data that was released Tuesday.
Good news NHTSA seeing continued declines in traffic deaths
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration previously reported declines in traffic deaths during 2018 and 2017. These latest estimates continue the downward trend of previously reported declines in traffic deaths during the same time period.
Car and Driver reports that if these estimates are reflected in the final data, the fatality rate per 100-million-miles-traveled would be the second-lowest since NHTSA started recording fatal crash data.
This new data also shows that nine out of 10 regions across the country have experienced a downturn in deaths. Last year, the Department established an intermodal truck and bus, working group. These focus on increasing safety and reducing truck and bus-related crashes.
NHTSA continues to financially support safety programs
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has accelerated its efforts to continue the decline of traffic fatalities. In February, NHTSA released $562 million in grants for highway safety programs. These went to the Offices of Highway Safety in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs. State and local law enforcement received grants. These will go towards enhancing traffic safety efforts to curb risky driving behaviors.
The Governors Highway Safety Association issued a statement this week saying the lower vehicle-accident fatality rate is good news, but that more work remains to be done. Drivers this summer must continue the same care and focus on safety that has been exhibited during the decline in fatalities.
Have you seen a decline in traffic fatalities in your community? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
