Democratic senators urge action to curb motor vehicle fatalities

A team of Democratic senators not long ago despatched a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, urging the U.S. Section of Transportation to prioritize roadway security and reverse the development of growing motor car fatalities.

In the United States, site visitors incidents are just one of the top causes of death.

In 2021, 42,915 people died in targeted visitors mishaps, according to the National Freeway Targeted traffic Basic safety Administration (NHTSA). This is 10.5 % higher than the year just before and 32 p.c larger than a 10 years ago. In the course of the identical timeframe, traffic fatalities fell in other international locations.

The increase in the United States has been attributed to behavioral variables. In 2020, 45 percent of passenger vehicles included in a fatal crash had been mainly because of rushing, alcohol-impaired driving, not sporting a seatbelt or a blend of these factors.

The department issued the Nationwide Roadway Basic safety Method in January. The document established a goal of zero site visitors fatalities or severe injuries, and produced the 5-pronged Safe and sound Method Tactic. Lawmakers asked for Buttigieg supply an update by June 29 on the steps the division has taken and what continues to be to make sure target completion dates are met.

Lawmakers expressed problem that the NHTSA has had trouble meeting deadlines in the past.