As experts in traffic control and safety, we at UTB Protection take the issue of roadway fatalities very seriously. After two years of dramatic increase (Starting in 2020), there has been a discernible decrease in the frequency of fatalities occurring on US roadways. This is according to the latest statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Estimates & Statistics

There were an estimated 31,785 road deaths in the first nine months of 2022, a slight decrease of 0.2% compared to an estimated 31,850 deaths for the same period in 2021. We are optimistic about this development and believe it is a step in the right direction.

Possible Reasons for This Improvement

One of the reasons for this positive development can be attributed to the increased attention and resources devoted to improving road safety in recent years. Government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies like ours have all played a role in raising awareness, implementing new technologies and techniques, and enforcing existing laws and regulations.

The Average American is now driving more miles than they did at the height of the pandemic, with total miles driven increased by 1.6%, equivalent to about 39 billion miles between all drivers nationwide, according to preliminary data from the Federal Highway Administration. As a result, the estimated mortality rate for the first nine months of 2022 has dropped to 1.30 per 100 million miles driven, compared to an estimated mortality rate of 1.32 for the same period in 2021.

Another likely factor is advances in vehicle safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies are designed to help drivers avoid accidents and reduce the severity of collisions when they do occur.

How to Continue this Positive Trend

We must remain vigilant and continue to work to reduce road fatalities. One way to achieve this is by continuing to invest in infrastructure improvements. For example, wider shoulders, better lighting, and better visibility of road signs. These upgrades help prevent accidents and create safer conditions for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Another important step is to promote safe driving behavior through education and enforcement. Aggressive driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and speeding are all leading causes of traffic deaths. Educating drivers about the dangers and consequences of this unsafe behavior and enforcing laws and penalties for offenders – can help reduce road fatalities.

In Conclusion

We are encouraged by the recent decline in road traffic casualties, but much remains to be done. By continuing to invest in improving safety, promoting safe driving behavior, and staying alert to emerging risks and challenges, we can create safer roads for everyone.

UTB Protection continues to provide services for managing temporary and permanent traffic control solutions. We hope that we can contribute personally to the safety of our roads and that we can provide our traffic control services to companies who are building new (and improving existing) infrastructure, all over the country. If you have a need for our services, please contact us. We would love to help you, or your business, create a traffic control plan for your next project.