For this reason, the US NHTSA is pleading with drivers not to take risks on the road.
Risky practices have increased during the pandemic, resulting in an increase in traffic accidents
Driving a car carries an inherent risk of serious injury or death. But with each generation, automakers are looking to improve vehicle performance by adding ever more innovative features and technologies to their vehicles.
Simple distractions, like listening to loud music or driving aggressively, increase the chance of fatal car accidents. Even though there were fewer vehicles on the road during the pandemic, the number of traffic fatalities rose in 2020. The startling increase has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to implore drivers to stop take unnecessary risks on the road.
In recent months, people have begun to drive faster on our country's roads, and speed-related deaths have increased across the country - up to 15% in some areas! As the speed increases, the consequences worsen. Please watch your speed.
— nhtsagov (@NHTSAgov)
Why has the number of car accidents increased during the pandemic?
The number of traffic accidents and fatalities is expected to decrease as the number of vehicles on the roads decreases. But less traffic on the roads and fewer cops could be contributing to a worrying trend of reckless driving. The pandemic lockdown has changed travel patterns and fewer drivers on the roads have forced many drivers to drive faster and take unnecessary risks.
NHTSA statistics showed a 22% increase in traffic speeds in various urban areas. There is also a disturbing downward trend in usage from April 2020 into the summer. Among the alarming statistics is an increase in the number of fines for speeding over 100 km/h in some regions. Increased speed, reckless driving and failure to wear seat belts have contributed to the overall increase in fatal crashes.
That's why the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration continues its mission to save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce vehicle-related crashes.
In addition to its many functions, the agency develops and enforces US motor vehicle safety standards, issues licenses to vehicle manufacturers, and conducts safety tests. NHTSA also conducts research and analysis such as the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), a road safety resource helping to develop safer vehicles and traffic management policies worldwide.
In its open letter, the NHTSA cites risky behavior as the main reason for the increase in fatal accidents. Risky behavior includes speeding, not wearing a seat belt, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Along with increasing speed and reducing seat belt use, the agency also reported that 65% of drivers at trauma centers tested positive for drug or alcohol use after serious crashes.
The NHTSA urges drivers to make responsible decisions. These include driving sober, making sure everyone in the vehicle is wearing their seat belts, and staying within posted speed limits.
“The rules of the road and the rules of the road are designed to protect all of us. Obeying the rules of the road increases the likelihood that you will get home safely, ”the NHTSA said in a statement.
“The men and women of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are asking all drivers in our nation to stop putting themselves at unnecessary risk on the road. Let's remember our safe driving rules - you can save a life today."
Safe driving isn't just about obeying the law while someone is watching. Less traffic on the road does not mean that drivers should stop thinking about car safety. With the privilege of driving comes the responsibility to protect yourself and those around you.
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