Increase in traffic fatalities in the US

Date: 26/7/2012

The first quarter of 2012 saw a 13.5 per cent increase in the number of people killed in road traffic accidents in America.

That is according to figures released by the (NHTSA) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which show that 7,630 people were killed during the period.

When compared to the same time frame a year earlier it is clear to see that this is a large increase on the 6,720 fatalities which had been recorded previously.

The NHTSA said: "[It is] too soon to speculate on the contributing factors or potential implications of any increase in deaths on our roadways."

One suggestion which has been put forward is that the US experienced unseasonably warm weather throughout the first quarter of the year and therefore there are likely to have been a greater number of vehicles on the road.

US motoring organisation, the AAA said that the figures highlight a number of areas which need improving in order to drive down the number of people killed on American roads.

These include limiting driver distractions, reducing the number of people driving while impaired and better promotion of a safe driving culture throughout the country.

Modern cars have a greater number of safety features than ever before, including anti-lock braking systems and side curtain airbags.

Despite the fact that they help to protect drivers and passengers should an accident occur they are not a substitute for careful driving.

Brian Chase, an auto defects expert, said: "While certain safety features like electronic stability control and antilock brakes come standard on new cars, pay particular attention to used car safety equipment, especially on older models."

With driving safety innovations, modern technology has also provided a greater number of distractions including mobile phones and entertainment equipment.

It is vital that these are used appropriately and drivers are aware of the risks to themselves and others of allowing themselves to be distracted by them.

Undoubtedly the figures which have been released showing an increase in fatalities will lead to greater scrutiny of factors which could have contributed to the rise.

Posted by Sarah Bailey

Transport Research News and Vehicle Safety News