With the summer vacation season in full swing, the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched a new road safety campaign encouraging drivers to slow down and enjoy the ride.
The campaign, which runs through July 31 comes after the NHTSA released data showing that while the number of fatalities in speeding-related crashes fell slightly in 2022, speeding was still a contributing factor in 29 per cent of all traffic fatalities for the year.
In 2022, 12,151 people died, and an estimated 300,595 were injured in speeding-related crashes, a three per cent and nine per cent decrease from 2021.
“Speeding accounts for nearly a third of all fatalities on our roads,” said Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman.
“While speeding may seem like the quick and easy option to make up some time when you’re running late, it puts you, your loved ones, and everyone else on the road in danger.
“This summer, and all year round, NHTSA urges drivers to slow down so everyone can arrive safely at their destination.”
NHTSA is also reminding the public that speeding happens — and is dangerous — on all roads, not just highways. In 2022, 87 per cent of all speeding-related traffic fatalities occurred on non-interstate roads.
