GHSA Concerned by Increase in Traffic Fatalities; Applauds Federal Efforts to Focus on Driver Behavior

GHSA Concerned by Increase in Traffic Fatalities; Applauds Federal Efforts to Focus on Driver Behavior

Lack of Belt Use Remains Key Issue, as Spotlighted in GHSA Report

Statement for attribution to 
Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) Executive Director Jonathan Adkins

WASHINGTON, D.C. – GHSA is troubled by the news that, after a slight drop in 2014, traffic fatalities for the first half of 2015 are up an estimated 8.1% from the same period last year. While the improved economy is likely driving the increase, with more cars on the road overall, three driver behaviors – impaired driving, failure to buckle up and excessive speed – continue to contribute to the greatest proportion of these preventable deaths. In fact, in 2014, nearly half of those killed on our nation’s roadways were not wearing their seat belt. To address this, GHSA released a report looking at the lack of seat belt use by rear seat passengers, an issue of critical importance as millions take to the road over the holidays.

We are heartened by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s plans to focus on human factors, the critical cause of 94% of traffic crashes. States are sharpening their already strong educational and enforcement programs to address these issues, but lack of reliable funding streams impacts their implementation. GHSA supports the House and Senate actions toward a long-term transportation bill. We urge both chambers to resolve their differences quickly and pass a final bill that will that will provide stability to states as they implement life-saving programs.

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About GHSA
The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) is a nonprofit association representing the highway safety offices of states, territories, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. GHSA provides leadership and representation for the states and territories to improve traffic safety, influence national policy, enhance program management and promote best practices. Its members are appointed by their Governors to administer federal and state highway safety funds and implement state highway safety plans. Contact GHSA at 202-789-0942 or visit www.ghsa.org. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GHSAhq or follow us on Twitter at @GHSAHQ.