The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) anticipates a reduction in traffic fatalities for the year 2023. According to their estimates, there were approximately 9,330 deaths in the first quarter, indicating a 3.3% decline compared to the same period in 2022. This marks the fourth consecutive quarterly decrease following seven quarters of increasing fatalities since the third quarter of 2020.

Despite a 2.6% rise in the number of miles driven by vehicles, the estimated fatality rate for the first quarter of 2023 decreased to 1.24 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles, down from the projected rate of 1.32 in 2022. Similar to 2022, where the NHTSA reported a drop from 1.37 fatalities per 100 vehicle miles in 2021, this decrease indicates a positive trend in traffic safety.

Pete Buttigieg, the United States Transportation Secretary, expressed optimism about the ongoing decline in traffic deaths, which have been steadily decreasing since the peak of the pandemic. He emphasized the necessity of sustained efforts to solidify and continue this positive trend.

Ann Carlson, the NHTSA Chief Counsel, recognized the progress made but highlighted the persisting problem of preventable crashes. She underscored the agency’s dedication to reducing traffic fatalities through various initiatives, including the advancement of new vehicle standards, investment in infrastructure and roadway safety, and collaboration with state and local partners to promote safe driving decisions.

To address the issue of traffic fatalities and severe injuries, the Department of Transportation (DOT) introduced the National Roadway Safety Strategy (NRSS), which adopts a safe system approach focusing on safer roads, individuals, vehicles, speeds, and post-crash care. This strategy is supported by unprecedented safety funding through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program.

The DOT has also implemented several initiatives to enhance roadway safety, such as proposing changes for advanced pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), upgrades to the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) with the introduction of a Pedestrian Protection Program, and regulations related to rear impact guards. Additionally, the DOT is gathering more data on crashes involving automated driving systems and advanced driver assistance systems. It is also conducting Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessments and establishing work groups to issue reports and advance roadway design models.

A recent two-year investigation conducted by the US Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General revealed shortcomings in the NHTSA’s handling of recalls and safety investigations. The investigation highlighted inconsistencies in documenting information and completing preliminary investigations within the organization’s target timelines.