Fatality Reduction

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) projections released October 9, 2009 show that traffic deaths on U.S. roads reached a record low in the first half of 2009. Estimates show that 16,626 people died in traffic crashes between January and June –- a 7 percent decline from 17,871 for the same period last year. Projected figures for the period also show a record low fatality rate of 1.15 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, down from 1.23 deaths during the same period in 2008.

Fatalities declined by about 10 percent in the first quarter and declined by about 4 percent in the second quarter of 2009, as compared to the respective quarters in 2008. The second quarter of 2009 will be the 13th consecutive quarter of declines in fatalities as compared to the same quarter from the previous year.

Seat Belt Use

Seat belt use in 2009 stood at 84 percent, a gain from 83 percent use in 2008. This result is from the National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS) which is the only survey that provides nationwide probability-based observed data on seat belt use in the United States. The NOPUS is conducted annually by the National Center for Statistics and Analysis of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Seat belt use has been increasing steadily since 1994, accompanied by a steady decline in the percentage of unrestrained passenger vehicle occupant fatalities during daytime. The 2009 survey also found the following: Seat belt use for occupants traveling during weekends increased to 86 percent in 2009 (83% in 2008), which shows a significant annual increase. Seat belt use continues to be higher in the States in which vehicle occupants can be pulled over solely for not using seat belts (“primary law” States) as compared with the States with a weaker enforcement law (“secondary law” States).

It’s up to us, each and every one of us to keep this movement going in the right direction. Buckle up, watch the speed limit, avoid distractions and be a good example to younger drivers. If you or a loved one is injured in a Nashville car accident contact the experienced Nashville Automobile accident attorney’s at Phillip Miller & Associates and find out about your rights and remedies.