While it may feel like the pandemic would have us traveling less and that would result in a decrease in roadway safety issues, Early Estimate of Motor Vehicle Traffic Fatalities for the First Half (January-June) of 2021 shows the largest six-month increase ever recorded in the Fatality Analysis Reporting System history. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report paints a dismal picture. Vehicle fatalities were up over 18% in the first half of 2021 compared to 2020. This rise is the highest since 2006.

In step with this new data, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has issued nine new Proven Safety Countermeasures, making for what is now a total of 28 proven, yet underutilized, road design elements to make roads safer for all users. The new Proven Safety Countermeasures are: rectangular rapid flashing beacons, crosswalk visibility enhancements, bicycle lanes, lighting, pavement friction management, wider edge lines, variable speed limits, appropriate speed limit-setting, and speed safety cameras. We will be updating our 2022 safety workshops to include these new countermeasures. In the interim, please take a look at the most recent information on all of the FHWA Proven Safety Countermeasures here.

New Jersey LTAP Director, Janet Leli

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Highway Administration are celebrating October as National Pedestrian Safety Month and strengthening their efforts to improve safety for vulnerable road users. DOT has produced free resources for everyone's use.

Join us this Fall for our Wednesdays “Lunch & Learn” series to explore four unique ways in which professional organizations are working together to improve the lives of transportation workers

FHWA recently launched the MATCH program to provide broad-based technical assistance to local and Tribal agencies facing roadway safety challenges. The program connects agencies requesting assistance (mentees) with peer mentors who have specific expertise to help successfully address the identified challenges. Learn more!