Concern at high US crashes

There is concern at the high US road crash rate.
By MJ Woof September 30, 2020 Read time: 1 min
The US has a worrying rate of road crashes – image © courtesy of Mike Woof
Preliminary data suggests an increase in road deaths in the US for the first six months of 2020 compared with the same period in 2019. The estimates point to an increase in fatalities linked to the use of vehicles of 20%.

This increase in road deaths comes in spite of a 17% drop in the total distance driven, a fall caused by the global pandemic.

The data comes from the National Safety Council (NSC). More research has to be carried out to reveal the cause of the jump in fatalities linked to the use of motor vehicles.

However, the NSC has previously pointed out that driver distraction is an increasing problem for US drivers. The use of smart phones at the wheel is a particular issue according to the NSC, and while hands-free equipment may be legal, research shows it is not safe to use.

A report from the NSC, Understanding Driver Distraction, reveals that “electronic devices are visually, manually and, most of all, cognitively distracting to drivers.” In addition, this report states, “…the safest option is to completely eliminate driver use of cell phones and interactive, in-vehicle infotainment systems.”
Highway & Network Management

Related Content

  • WASH AND GO
    February 9, 2018
    Our Skidmarks page is highly rated by readers. Your input could help make this page even more entertaining. If you come across any amusing road-related stories or pictures email me at [email protected]
    Read More
  • New study reveals worrying trends amongst German drivers
    March 10, 2014
    A new study from Germany reveals that young drivers are increasingly interested in vehicles equipped with modern communication facilities. This report is of concern as data shows the increasing use of communication devices to boost the risk of crashes. According to a study by Samsung, the entering of a telephone number while driving increases accident risk by a factor of 2.8 and the typing of a text message by a factor of 23. Meanwhile a study by insurance company Allianz suggests that 30% of motorists read
    Read More
  • Road safety concerns for France and Portugal following increased crashes
    August 18, 2015
    There is concern in France and Portugal following the publication of data showing increases in road deaths. Both countries have been highly effective in recent years in reducing road deaths and injuries following campaigns to crack down on speeding and drink driving. The recent increases in deaths and injuries from road crashes have been of major concern as a result.
    Read More
  • High fuel prices impact on global trade
    February 27, 2012
    Official statistics can often reveal the blindingly obvious to anyone with the remotest level of common sense. A report from the UK's Office for National Statistics presents a fine example, stating that fewer journeys were made during the recession.
    Read More

Highlighted Content