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Estimated U.S. Highway Fatalities Climb to 9-Year High
Traffic-related deaths in the U.S. rose 6% to a nine-year-high of 40,200 in 2016, according to preliminary data from the National Safety Council.
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Traffic-related deaths in the U.S. rose 6% to a nine-year-high of 40,200 in 2016, according to preliminary data from the National Safety Council. The group says fatalities have surged 14% in the past two years.
A new driver survey released by the nonprofit organization points to two big risk factors. The poll finds about two-thirds of respondents are comfortable speeding and nearly half approve of texting—either manually or through voice controls—while driving. Two in five say they have been involved in a crash while impaired.
The NSC blames complacency for the rising fatality rate and warns the trend shows no sign of slowing. The group urges ignition interlocks for convicted drunk drivers, automated speed traps, tougher seatbelt usage laws and a universal ban on all cell phone use in moving vehicles.
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