NHTSA Launches Speeding Prevention Campaign

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has unveiled the "Speeding Catches Up with You" campaign, a comprehensive effort aimed at encouraging drivers to reduce their speed. Running through July 31, this campaign is backed by a $9.5 million national media buy, featuring advertisements in both English and Spanish across TV, radio, and digital platforms.

Campaign Goals and Data Insights

The campaign comes in response to data showing that speeding remains a significant factor in traffic fatalities. In 2022, speeding contributed to 29% of all traffic deaths, with 12,151 people losing their lives and an estimated 300,595 suffering injuries in speeding-related crashes. While these figures represent slight decreases from 2021, the issue remains critical. Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman emphasized, "Speeding accounts for nearly a third of all fatalities on our roads. NHTSA urges drivers to slow down so everyone can arrive safely at their destination."

Broader Impact Beyond Highways

A crucial aspect of the campaign is the reminder that speeding is dangerous on all types of roads, not just highways. In 2022, a staggering 87% of speeding-related traffic fatalities occurred on non-interstate roads, highlighting the pervasive risk of speeding in everyday driving environments.

Supporting the National Roadway Safety Strategy

The campaign aligns with the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Roadway Safety Strategy (NRSS), which aims to reduce serious and fatal injuries on roadways. Key accomplishments in 2023 under the NRSS include:

• Funding for Roadway Safety: Over $1.7 billion was awarded through the Safe Streets and Roads for All discretionary grant program, benefiting over 1,000 communities and covering nearly 70% of the U.S. population.
• Vehicle Safety Technologies: Rulemaking efforts were accelerated for automatic emergency braking systems, including for pedestrians, in all new passenger and heavy vehicles.
• Impaired-Driving Prevention: Advanced notice of proposed rulemaking was initiated to set standards for impaired-driving prevention technology.
• Regulatory Updates: Updates to key road safety regulations and guidance were implemented to enhance safety for all road users.
• EMS Data System Expansion: The National Emergency Medical Services Information System expanded to include data from all 50 states, two territories, and the District of Columbia.
• Allies in Action: More than 160 organizations, including 36 state transportation agencies and safety offices, joined the NRSS as Allies in Action.

By focusing on these areas, NHTSA's campaign not only aims to address speeding but also supports broader efforts to enhance road safety and reduce fatalities across the country. The coordinated approach underscores the importance of safe driving habits and the collective effort required to make U.S. roadways safer for everyone.

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Source:

https://www.fleetowner.com/safety/article/55094339/nhtsa-launches-95-million-speeding-prevention-campaign-supported-by-national-media-buy