News

Week of September 29, 2025

Week of September 22, 2025

  • NHTSA Launches Safe System Initiative to Improve Motorcycle Safety
    Ultimatemotorcycling.com

    The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a Request for Quote (RFQ) for a contractor to take the lead in the development of a “Safe Systems Approach” (SSA) to motorcycle safety.

  • Study Reveals Nearly All Drivers Face Road Rage — Experts Say It’s Preventable
    Newsroom.aaa.com

    If it feels like everyone has road rage these days, that’s because they probably do. A staggering 96% of drivers admit to engaging in aggressive driving behaviors over the past year, according to a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. From speeding and tailgating to cutting off other vehicles, aggressive driving has become a near universal experience – and it’s not just frustrating, it appears to be contagious.

  • Teen Driver Faces Charges After Deputy Directing School Traffic Is Struck in Dinwiddie
    WTVR.com

    A Dinwiddie County sheriff's deputy is recovering after being hit by a car Monday morning while directing traffic in front of an elementary school.

  • Law Enforcement Agencies Unite to Crack Down on Dangerous Driving Along Route 460
    WFXRTV.com

    The Virginia State Police has announced a multi-agency effort to encourage drivers to be responsible behind the wheel on U.S. Route 460.

    “Operation Drive Safe 460” will take place on Friday, September 26.

  • National Child Passenger Safety Week: 4 Car Seat Mistakes Parents Must Avoid
    Thesubtimes.com

    New this year, new federal safety standards were announced requiring car seats to test and confirm improved protection from side-impact collisions before December 2026.

  • VDOT, Transurban Team Up on Driver Safety Campaign for I-495 NEXT Project
    Constructionequipmentguide.com

    With construction activities on northern Virginia's new interstate express lanes increasing and now concentrated in the median along the project's corridor, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and its I-495 Express Lanes Northern Extension (495 NEXT) project partner, Transurban, have launched a driver safety campaign.

  • 8 Walking and Biking Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life
    NPR.org

    You've heard of defensive driving — driving practices to help you stay safe on the road, like reducing your speed in bad weather or signaling before switching lanes. But what about defensive walking and cycling?

    They're a crucial part of pedestrian and cyclist safety, and more people should practice them, says Ryan Sharp, a transportation consultant with Alta, a transportation design firm.

  • NHTSA Probes 17,000 Rivian Delivery Vans Over Potential Seat Belt Defect
    Autonews.com

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it opened a preliminary evaluation into 17,198 Rivian Automotive Inc. electric delivery vans over seat belt concerns.

  • DMV’s 54-Foot Ladder Stunt Dramatically Shows How Speed Intensifies Crash Impact
    Realradio804.com

    The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is bringing a show-stopping attraction to the 2025 Virginia State Fair on September 26–28: a towering 54-foot bright yellow ladder designed to make one powerful point—speed has an impact.

  • Foxweather.com
    Fatal 10-Vehicle Pileup Closes I-81 in Western Virginia

    A chain-reaction crash involving at least 10 vehicles, including several tractor-trailers, shut down Interstate 81 on Thursday evening and left one person dead, according to Virginia State Police.

Week of September 15, 2025

  • AAA Tidewater Event Urges Safe Driving as Teen Traffic Deaths Climb in Virginia
    WTKR.com

    AAA and traffic safety organizations across Virginia came together Saturday to teach safe driving practices to teenagers and their families through interactive demonstrations and real-world simulations.

  • VCU Police Step Up Enforcement to Curb Dangerous Driving on Belvidere Street
    WRIC.com

    Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Police said they’re not letting up on traffic enforcement along Belvidere Street, one of Richmond’s busiest and most dangerous corridors.

    The department has launched a major traffic safety initiative in March, focused on the five-block stretch between West Broad Street and Canal Street that runs through the heart of VCU’s campus.

  • Man Hurt in Road Rage Shooting on Midlothian Turnpike
    12onyourside.com

    The Chesterfield County Police Department is investigating a road rage shooting in Midlothian, which left a driver injured on Saturday afternoon.

    At 5:15 p.m., officers received a report about a shooting on Midlothian Turnpike near Stonehenge Village Shopping Center.

    At the scene, officers found a man with a gunshot wound. The victim is expected to survive.

  • Near Miss’ Dashboard Uses Driver and Cyclist Reports to Improve Road Safety
    Virginiamercury.com

    Thomas King is used to cycling around Richmond. The Church Hill resident often rides on weekends and he also commutes by bike to his office a few miles away. He knows the best routes to take, what supplies to bring – such as spare tires – and now, he knows how to report almost-accidents on PlanRVA’s Near Miss Dashboard.

  • IIHS Unveils First Safety Ratings for Electric Vehicles
    TheEVreport.com

    IIHS tested seven electric vehicles, with five earning good moderate overlap ratings but headlights lagging across the board. No model qualifies for TOP SAFETY PICK awards

  • Campaign Urges Awareness and Action for Rail Safety
    Realradio804.com

    Do you hear that sound in the distance? It may be a train whistle. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) wants to remind drivers of critical rail safety information to keep travelers safe and help prevent highway-rail crossing incidents.

    The important safety reminder comes during Operation Lifesaver’s See Tracks? Think Train! Week, which runs Sept. 15-21.

  • Hyundai Recalls 568,000+ Vehicles in U.S. Over Seat Belt Defect
    Reuters.com

    Hyundai Motor (005380.KS), opens new tab is recalling 568,580 Palisade vehicles in the U.S., over an issue with the seat belt buckles which may not properly secure passengers in a crash, the U.S. autos safety regulator said on Thursday.
    The recall affects certain 2020-2025 model year Palisade vehicles, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.

  • Distracted Driving Linked to 240% Spike in Crash Risk, Study Finds
    Collisionweek.com

    Drivers who use phones while driving face a 240% higher crash risk compared to those who don’t, according to a report released Wednesday by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and Cambridge Mobile Telematics.

  • DMV Ladder Stunt at Virginia Fair Drives Home Dangers of Speeding
    Yahoo.com

    The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is bringing a powerful attraction to this year’s state fair. A 54-foot bright yellow ladder designed to show that speed has an impact.

  • Report: Nearly Half of Parents Skipping Critical Child Safety Step, Putting Kids at Risk
    Yahoo.com

    According to a new AAA analysis of data compiled by the U.S. Department of Transportation, nearly half (47 percent) of children injured in car crashes were not properly restrained in a car seat and were either using just a vehicle seatbelt or no restraint at all.

Week of September 8, 2025

  • NHTSA Moves to Update AV Safety Rules as Lucid, Uber Partner on 20,000-Robotaxi Fleet
    Repairerdrivennews.com

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plans to launch three rulemakings to modernize Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for vehicles with automated driving systems.

    Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy says the standards were written decades ago and fail to account for automated vehicles.

  • Safety Experts Urge Parents: Don’t Move Kids Out of Car Seats and Boosters Too Soon
    NCWlife.com

    According to new research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, child crash fatalities have declined over the past five years. But many children are still being moved out of car seats and booster seats too soon.

    AAA found that nearly 100,000 kids were injured in car crashes in 2023 alone, with a disturbing decline in car seat and booster seat use after children turned three years old.

  • 5 Fleet Safety Mistakes That Put Drivers at Risk—and How to Avoid Them
    Wortruckonline.com

    Safety isn’t supposed to be a greatest hits album, but somehow, a few bad habits keep playing on repeat.

    This time, I'm calling out five of the most common (and frustratingly frequent) safety slip-ups that still haunt light- and medium-duty fleets. You’ve probably seen these before… maybe even this week. But no shame here! Just some fun, practical ways to finally break the cycle.

  • Hampton Seeks Public Input on Plans to Improve Busy Intersection
    13newsnow.com

    The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is asking for the public’s help to improve safety and traffic flow at one of Hampton’s busiest intersections.

    Officials are collecting community feedback on the intersection of Power Plant Parkway, Briarfield Road, and West Queen Street, an area that provides north and south access to Interstate 664.

  • What Drivers Need to Know About Chesterfield’s New School Bus Safety Program
    WTVR.com

    Chesterfield County Public Schools, in partnership with BusPatrol and the Chesterfield County Police Department, is launching a new school bus safety enforcement program.

    The program, which starts on Sept. 15, aims to tackle the issue of illegal school bus passings, according to a news release from the school system.

  • IIHS to Factor Speeding, Drunk-Driving Detection Tech Into Safety Awards
    Cars.com

    New cars will have to do a better job of detecting speeding and drunk driving to earn a Top Safety Pick+, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety announced Tuesday. Changes to the agency’s highest rating were announced during a roundtable on impaired driving organized by Mothers Against Drunk Driving and are intended to curb dangerous and illegal activity, the agency said.

  • Shoulder Widening Project Set to Begin in Northern Neck
    VDOT.virginia.gov

    The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will begin a safety project in the Northern Neck region next week to slightly widen road shoulders on several primary routes to reduce the risk of crashes.

  • NSC Calls Decline in Roadway Deaths ‘Tremendous Progress’
    Safetyandhealthmagazine.com

    The number of motor vehicle-related deaths decreased nearly 13% in the first half of the year compared with the same period in 2024, a National Safety Council analysis shows.

  • Drugged Driving Emerges as a Growing Threat on America’s Roads
    Theconversation.com

    In October 2023, an unthinkable tragedy unfolded in Coleman, Wisconsin: An 8‑month‑old girl lost her life when a driver, impaired by cannabis, ran a stop sign and crashed into another vehicle. In February 2025, the driver pleaded guilty to negligent vehicular homicide and drugged driving with a minor passenger – and now faces up to 10 years behind bars.

  • Program Helping Seniors Feel More Confident Behind the Wheel Launches in Roanoke
    WDBJ7.com

    An interactive and educational program designed to improve senior driving safety is scheduled to take place next week.

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  • Prince George Fire & EMS Urges Caution, Shares Safety Tips After Solo Vehicle Crash
    WRIC.com

    According to Prince George County Fire and EMS, motor vehicle accidents have become the most common call, and the department wants to provide the community with important safety tips.

  • Inexperienced Drivers Fuel Increasing Truck Crash Rates, Study Warns
    Programminginsider.com

    In the United States, commercial truck accidents continue to pose a significant danger on highways and city roads. In Virginia and beyond, the increase in truck-related crashes has caught the attention of safety advocates, lawmakers, and the general public.

  • Drivers Face Fines Starting July 1 for Ignoring Virginia’s New Traffic Law
    Themirror.com

    Virginia has been slow to update its seatbelt laws because it's seen as an infringement of personal liberty in the eyes of the state and its residents. It is similar to New Hampshire, the only state that does not have seat belt laws.

  • Drivers Urged to Proceed with Caution Through Roadway Roundabouts
    Theredstonerocket.com

    In recognition of the National Safety Council’s safety month campaign, we are alerting drivers about roadway safety. This week your Garrison Safety Office is highlighting vehicle operations in roundabouts.

  • Backseat Buckle-Up: Virginia Expands Seat Belt Law Starting July 1
    Newsontheneck.com

    A 2023 statewide survey found only 73.2% of individuals on the road were wearing seat belts. A 2024 follow-up showed some improvement but nearly 1 in 5 Virginians were still riding unrestrained and 50% of the people killed in traffic crashes were found to have been unrestrained, according to figures from DMV.
    In response, this year, the Virginia General Assembly passed HB 2475 updating the state's seat belt laws. Starting July 1 all passengers, regardless of where they sit in a vehicle, will be required to wear a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion.

  • AAA Shares Essential Safety Tips for Summer Driving
    WHSV.com

    With school out for the summer, there are more teenage drivers on the road and families heading off for vacation. AAA says to be on the lookout for more traffic especially on the weekends.

  • Ford Recalls Nearly 200,000 Vehicles Over Back Seat Entrapment Risk, Says NHTSA
    Reuters.com

    Ford Motor (F.N), opens new tab is recalling 197,432 vehicles in the U.S. due to a risk of back seat occupants getting trapped due to inability of entering or exiting the vehicle in case of an emergency, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Thursday.
    The company is recalling certain 2021-2025 Mustang Mach E vehicles, NHTSA said.

  • Honda Recalls Over 250,000 Vehicles for Brake Pedal Defect
    WDBJ.com

    A nationwide recall involves thousands of Honda and Acura vehicles.

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the recall is for more than 250,000 vehicles because of an issue with the brake pedal.

  • 5 Key Tips for Parents to Talk to Teens About Safe Driving
    WRIC.com

    The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is packed with summer festivities and outings, but it also holds the ominous distinction of being the "100 deadliest days of summer." That's because during this time, American teens are 20% more likely to be involved in a fatal car collision, according to the National Road Safety Foundation.

  • Brake Checking Can Cost You: Northern Virginia Attorney Jennifer Porter Explains Legal Consequences
    OpenPR.com

    Brake checking has become a growing concern on Virginia roads, and Northern Virginia car accident lawyer Jennifer Porter is shedding light on its dangers and legal consequences. In her recent article titled "Is Brake Checking Illegal?", Porter outlines how this aggressive driving behavior not only poses serious risks to safety but also constitutes a significant legal offense under Virginia law.

Week of June 9, 2025

  • Why Every Parent Should Consider a Car Tracker for Their Teen Driver
    Theweeklydriver.com

    Parents must prioritize teen driving safety. Car trackers provide effective tools for monitoring and improving teen driving behavior.

    Teen drivers face elevated risks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens aged 15-18 in the United States.

  • Tips To Keep Teens Safe Behind The Wheel This Summer
    CBS19news.com

    A stretch of time known as the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers, running from Memorial Day to Labor Day, is underway.

    AAA Mid-Atlantic says that between 2019 and 2023, 13,135 people were killed in a crash involving a teen driver, and more than 30 percent of those deaths occurred between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

  • New Law Uses Tech to Keep Speeding in Check, Forces Cars to Obey Limits
    USAtoday.com

    Beware, bad drivers: Some states are passing laws that punish reckless driving with devices that control vehicles' top speeds.

    Washington State recently became the second state in the U.S., joining Virginia, to enact a law placing speed-limiting technology in the cars of drivers with reckless driving records. Washington, D.C., also has a similar law.

  • Distracted Driving Is Everyone’s Responsibility Behind the Wheel
    CCJdigital.com

    Distracted driving increases the risk of being in an accident by 23 times, according to the National Institutes of Health. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were approximately 3,000 deaths and over 400,000 injuries due to distracted driving in 2023.
    Vice President of Fleet Evangelism at fleet management software IntelliShift, Gilchrist proposes that telematics and dash cameras are the key to success and suggests that fleets have an opportunity to improve safety beyond their companies into the communities they serve.

  • Why the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport Fell Short of Top Safety Ratings
    Freep.com

    The Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport SUVs failed to meet the marginal ratings to qualify for a top safety pick in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's latest safety ratings, with the institute noting there is a heightened risk for head and neck injuries in the rear seat of the Bronco Sport.

  • Driving Instructors Warn: These 6 Dangerous Habits Could Put You—and Others—at Serious Risk
    Buzzfeed.com

    Driving teachers meet us when we are most panicked and anxious behind the wheel. It’s their job to help new and nervous drivers stay calm and alert, and although the students will change over time, the mistakes teachers often encounter will not.

  • AAA Issues Warning as Teen Driver Deaths Surge During Summer Months
    MSN.com

    AAA issues a warning for teens and parents with the start of what it calls the “100 Deadliest Days.”

  • New ‘Restrictor’ Laws Spark Backlash as Smart Devices Limit Driver Control
    The-Sun.com

    Washington joins Virginia in enacting laws that place speed-limiting tech in cars of drivers who have reckless driving records.

  • Staying Safe Behind the Wheel in Treacherous Weather Conditions
    Fredericksburgfreepress.com

    The ground is saturated and more rain is expected—raising the risk of additional trees falling. Please stay alert, especially in wooded areas or during periods of heavy rain.

  • Driver Shares Timeless Side Mirror Tip Learned from Pro Class 20 Years Ago
    MSN.com

    I realized the day would be hosted by professional (read: racecar) drivers. Fast forward 22 years, and I still use what I learned that day every time I drive.

    The experience resulted in several takeaways, so I could go on for pages, here. One of them was that it was cool to like cars. And that I really did know a thing or two about them: we stood in front of a test car and were asked to name all the fluids in its major systems. I was the only one in the big batch of teens to list them all. But in terms of immediately applicable driving tips, here’s one to do with your car’s side-view mirrors. And it was the instructor’s very first lesson.

Week of June 2, 2025

  • AAA Warns of ‘100 Deadliest Days’: Summer Crash Data Reveals Teen Driver Dangers in Virginia
    WRIC.com

    The days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are labeled the 100 deadliest days, according to AAA, in which crash data revealed patterns of deaths involving teen drivers.

  • Mother Issues Warning as ‘100 Deadliest Days’ of Teen Driving Begin
    WDBJ7.com

    We are in the 100 deadliest days, the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day when teen drivers are more likely to be involved in deadly crashes.

    WDBJ7 spoke to Tammy Gweedo McGee, whose life changed forever when her son Conner Gweedo, a high school junior, was killed in a car crash on the night of his junior prom. He got into a car with an underage, unlicensed driver, and never made it home. Conner was one of three teens who lost their lives in that accident.

  • Richmond Ranks 10th Deadliest U.S. City for Drunk Driving, Study Shows
    WRIC.om

    Richmond is the 10th-deadliest city for drunk driving in America, according to a new study.

    The Amanda Demanda Law Group ranked 100 cities across the United States for their “drunk driving danger,” doing so by comparing data related to driving under the influence (DUI) — including total arrests made and the death toll these crashes have had.

  • Spike in Virginia Pedestrian Injuries Alarms Safety Advocates
    Lawyer-monthly.com

    A recently released report has raised concern in Virginia, documenting a troubling surge in pedestrians hit by vehicles across the state. Norfolk experienced relatively higher rates of alcohol-related and speed-related accidents, raising concerns for pedestrian safety in the city.

    The data highlights an increase in pedestrian risk, prompting safety advocates and the wider community to take immediate notice.

  • Are Roadway Work Zones Becoming More Dangerous for Drivers and Workers?
    Safetyandhealthmagazine.com

    Almost half of the highway construction contractors who participated in a recent study believe the risk of work zone crashes is greater now than one year ago.

    More than 600 firms across the United States took part in the annual Work Zone Awareness Survey, conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America and software company HCSS.

  • Roanoke Launches ‘Focused Driving, Safe Arriving’ Campaign to Curb Distracted Driving
    WDBJ7.com

    Distracted driving crashes in Roanoke City have increased by more than 60% in the last five years, with a distraction involved in nearly a quarter of all crashes in 2021.

    To address this growing threat, the City of Roanoke is launching the Focused Driving, Safe Arriving campaign this summer, a community-wide effort to encourage safer driving habits and save lives.

  • Virginia Cracks Down on Seatbelt Use Ahead of New Law Taking Effect July 1
    Realradio804.com

    Beginning July 1, Virginia will have a new backseat seatbelt law requiring all vehicle occupants to wear a seatbelt, according to a written statement.

    According to the most recent statewide seat belt survey in 2024, 19% of Virginians were still not wearing a seat belt while driving.

  • Authorities Warn of New DMV Scam Texts
    WDBJ7.com

    A DMV text scam is happening. It is circulating telling people to pay up or get their driving privileges suspended, DMV is saying this isn't true.

  • Volvo Unveils World’s First Multi-Adaptive Seat Belt, Redefining Passenger Safety
    Autos.yahoo.com

    Volvo, the company known for selling the first car with a three-point seat belt, says it is taking vehicle safety to a new level with the introduction of the world’s first multi-adaptive seat belt.

  • Safety Officials Warn: Don’t Stream Media While Driving Using Infotainment Systems
    MSN.com

    Screens in your car seem to be getting bigger each new model year, and officials are warning drivers to make sure they’re not playing movies on them while they’re driving.

Week of May 26, 2025

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Week of March 24, 2025

  • New Initiative Launched to Promote Safe Driving Among Teens
    Yourgv.com

    More teen drivers in Virginia will be involved in traffic crashes between the months of May and August than any other time of the year, statistics show.

    To help save lives and prevent crashes during the high-risk warm weather months, Virginia schools kicked off a statewide teen safety project this month to develop driver and passenger safety behaviors among youth and teens.

  • Governor Youngkin Signs Legislation Mandating Seat Belts for Backseat Passengers
    WRIC.com

    Gov. Glenn Youngkin has signed a bill that will require all vehicle passengers, including those in the backseat, to wear a seat belt while driving in Virginia. The current law only requires passengers in the front seat to wear seat belts.

    Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that Virginia is the worst state in the country when it comes to seat belt usage.

  • State Law Change Empowers Roadside Crews with New Tool to Warn Drivers to Move Over
    WRIC.com

    A new state law change is giving roadside workers an extra tool to better protect themselves on Virginia’s busy roadways.

    Beginning Tuesday, July 1, roadside service providers like AAA will be rolling out truck-mounted light-up signs, warning drivers to slow down and move over as they pass a roadside scene.

  • Deputies Arrest Stafford County Teen for Driving Under the Influence with Glock-Style BB Gun
    Yahoo.com

    A Stafford County teenager has been charged after being found driving under the influence with a Glock-style BB gun on him, according to the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.

  • 10 Essential Road Safety Do's and Don'ts That Could Save Your Life
    NPR.org

    Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death in the United States, killing more than 120 people everyday, according to 2022 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

    But they are preventable. Carias, who works out of CHP's Central Division office in Fresno, Calif., shares his top road safety do's and don'ts.

  • Split-Second Distractions: How Quick Moments of Inattention Can Lead to Catastrophic Events
    NRVNews.com

    According to Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles crash statistics, distracted driving contributed to 17%, or 21,528, of all traffic crashes in 2023. Of those, 11,521 collisions resulted in injuries, and 64 people were killed.

  • Virginia Turns to Technology to Tackle Speeding on the Roads
    WAVY.com

    Virginia is on its way towards implementing a law that would use technology to slow down speeding drivers.

    The goal of HB2096 is to crack down on those convicted of speeding related offenses with an alternative option known as the Intelligent Speed Assistance Program.

  • Road Shark's First Wave Nets Over 9,000 Citations for Reckless Driving
    WUSA9.com

    The first wave of the Fairfax County Police Department’s (FCPD) 2025 Road Shark campaign has made a strong impact, resulting in 9,320 citations and warnings issued between March 17 and 23. Designed to combat reckless driving and improve road safety, the initiative saw FCPD officers teaming up with the Virginia State Police (VSP) to enhance enforcement across the county.

  • NASCAR's Ross Chastain Promotes Safe Driving at Racing College of Virginia with 'Who's Your Driver?' Campaign
    Virginianreview.com

    NASCAR Cup Series driver Ross Chastain joined students at Patrick & Henry Community College’s Racing College of Virginia today to emphasize the importance of making safe driving choices as part of the Who’s Your Driver? campaign. The event, held at the college’s state-of-the-art motorsports training facility, highlighted the critical need for young drivers to choose a sober driver and always buckle up.

  • Data Reveals the Deadliest Spots for Car Crashes in Virginia
    MSN.com

    Citing data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Stacker identified the counties in Virginia that had the most fatalities from motor vehicle crashes in 2020.

Week of March 17, 2025

  • Drive Safe: Preventing DUIs Before They Happen with 'Have a Safe Ride Home
    MSN.com

    According to the DMV, 14,227 people were convicted of driving under the influence across Virginia in 2022.

    Saint Patrick’s Day specials across the country typically include alcoholic beverages, like green beer.

  • Rising Danger: The Alarming Trend of Watching Short Videos While Driving
    Team-bhp.com

    I used to think distracted driving was mostly about calls or texting. But now, short video platforms have taken this to another level. It’s not just a momentary distraction anymore; it’s full-on entertainment at the cost of safety.

  • Road Shark Returns to Combat Reckless Driving in Fairfax County
    WTOP.com

    The Road Shark initiative has Fairfax County Police Department and Virginia State Police working together to hone in on specific driving behaviors.
    This month, they’re zeroing in on impaired driving. Next month, they’ll focus on distracted driving. They’ll focus on aggressive driving and school zone violations in the months to come.

  • Over 100,000 Vehicles, Including Cadillac and Chevrolet, Recalled: Check for Recalls Here
    Autos.yahoo.com

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued multiple recalls last week, including notices for over 90,000 General Motors vehicles.

  • Ensuring Fleet Safety: Tackling the Hidden Dangers of Work Zones
    Worktruckonline.com

    Fleet operators, particularly those who manage utility and infrastructure projects, understand how critical work zone safety is. The unpredictability of traffic conditions due to distracted drivers and/or operational hazards puts work truck fleet drivers at risk. Thankfully, new advancements in telematics and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven fleet management address these safety risks head-on, improving driver behavior and optimizing operations.

  • Keepers Cup Soccer Tournament Returns to Promote Safe Driving Awareness
    WTKR.com

    A York County mother is following through on her efforts to protect drivers by hosting an annual soccer tournament, which is returning to honor her 16-year-old son who tragically died in a car crash.

  • AI Technology May Help Combat Distracted Driving
    Constructionequipment.com

    Telematics firm Telectrac Navman is out with its most recent survey on “Global Distracted Driving Trends,” and fleet professionals around the world have weighed in, reporting 70% of their businesses have been impacted by distracted driving incidents. Some 49% of respondents cited that distracted driving has had a direct impact on costs.

  • New Virginia Bill Aims to Curb Excessive Speeding
    13newsnow.com

    A new bill in Virginia could help stop excessive speeders and repeat offenders.

    If signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin, HB2096 would give the Virginia DMV and judges an alternative to suspending a license or a sentence for jail time by instead enrolling the offender in the Intelligent Speed Assistance Program.

  • Ford Recalls 240,000 Explorers and Aviators Over Faulty Seat Belt Assembly
    MSN.com

    Ford is recalling about 240,000 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs due to a problem with seat belt anchors that were improperly secured.
    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

  • Richmond Police Issue Over $36,000 in Fines During One-Day Distracted Driving Blitz
    Richmond-news.com

    Richmond RCMP gave out more than $36,000 in fines in a one-day distracted driving blitz.

    On March 11, RCMP were at multiple locations looking for drivers using electronic devices.

Week of March 10, 2025

  • Virginia Beach Parents Weigh In on New Technology Launching on School Buses Monday
    WTKR.com

    This week, conversations surrounding school safety have shifted from school zone cameras to innovative technology being implemented on beach school buses aimed at protecting students.
    PJ Crisostomo, who has four children in VB schools, expressed concern about the dangers that can arise during morning and afternoon bus pickups.

  • Seat Belts in America Set for a Major Transformation – Here's What They'll Look Like
    Ecoportal.net

    The changes brought about in Virginia are not only about enforcement, but automakers are also working on advanced seat belts, different from the traditional ones that we know. The upcoming generation of seat belts is poised to transform vehicle safety with its novel harness-style restraints and smart seat belts with sensors but is still pushing safety as a priority.

  • Most Americans Say 'No' to Riding in Self-Driving Cars, Survey Reveals
    USAtoday.com

    If you had the chance to take a ride in a self-driving vehicle, would you?

    Most Americans would say no, according to a recent survey by AAA.

  • Police Seek Public Input on Which Roads to Target for Bad Drivers
    WTVR.com

    "It's not about going out and writing tickets for the sake of writing tickets or stopping cars for the sake of stopping cars. It's trying to change behaviors so that people recognize the responsibility of driving a motor vehicle and the seriousness of that responsibility to keep everybody safe,” Easton stated.

  • VDOT Turns to AI to Reduce Costs and Keep Virginia Roads in Top Shape
    Virginiamercury.com

    With highway construction costs surging 68% nationwide since 2020, Virginia’s transportation officials are turning to artificial intelligence to improve how the state estimates costs and manages pavement upkeep.

  • York County Mother Advocates for Changes to Teen Driving Laws
    13newsnow.com

    A York County mother is pushing for a change in teen driving laws. Tammy Gweedo McGee says hers son Connor and three other Tabb high school students died in a crash after leaving a Homecoming dance in 2019.

  • High Stakes: How Cannabis Users Perceive Driving Under the Influence
    AAA.com

    Cannabis is the third most commonly used substance in the United States, following nicotine and alcohol. This trend is not surprising, considering that some form of cannabis consumption is legal in 38 states—24 states allow recreational use, while 14 states permit medical use only. With the rise in cannabis use, this form of impaired driving has become more common, leading to a heightened risk of crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

  • Young Drivers Receive Key Tips on Truck Safety
    Gridleyherald.com

    Butte County Public Health (BCPH) is proud to announce a new partnership between its Safe Routes to School program and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) to provide crucial education to young drivers at Pleasant Valley High School in Chico and Las Plumas High School in Oroville.

  • IIHS Reveals 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK Award Winners
    Yahoo.com

    The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is requiring better protection for second-row occupants for the 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards, encouraging automakers to make advanced seat belt technology and other safety innovations the norm in the back seat.

  • Fairfax County Introduces Fines for Drivers Ignoring School Bus Safety Stops
    WJLA.com

    Drivers in Fairfax County, Virginia, will soon face a hefty fine if they illegally pass by a school bus that is picking up or dropping off kids before and after school.

Week of March 3, 2025

  • Virginia's Seat Belt Laws May Soon See Major Changes
    13newsnow.com

    When riding along in a car, make sure to buckle up because seat belt laws could soon change in Virginia.

    Since the 1980s, Virginia laws only mandated passengers in the front seat to wear a seat belt. Starting this summer, that all could change. If Governor Glenn Youngkin signs these new regulations into law, then starting July 1, all passengers ages 18 and up will be required to wear a seat belt, even if they're sitting in the back seat.

  • Chantilly High Student Dies in Head-On Collision with Suspected Drunk Driver
    NBCWashington.com

    A somber Monday at a Northern Virginia high school after a 16-year-old student was killed in a head-on crash with a suspected drunken driver last week.

    Before 10:30 p.m. Thursday, when it would have been very dark in the area, a man driving a 2023 Toyota Corolla north on Pleasant Valley Road in Centreville crossed the double yellow line and struck the girl in a 2013 Toyota Camry, detectives said.

  • Virginia Launches 'Arrive Alive' Program to Boost Teen Driving Safety
    WFXRTV.com

    Youth of Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety (YOVASO) and the Virginia State Police have announced the ‘Arrive Alive’ program to promote teen safe driving ahead of spring weather.

    During May and August, there are more car accidents involving Virginia teens than any other times of the year. In efforts to save lives and prevent crashes, Virginia schools are kicking off a state-wide teen safety project.

  • Smartphone Use Behind the Wheel: A Growing Danger on the Roads
    ThePress.net

    Few likely imagined that a day would come when a person could communicate, browse the internet, take photos and videos, play music, and much more all from a device small enough to store in a pants pocket.

    But that’s just what one gets with a smartphone. These amazing devices have transformed how people engage in everyday life. Although smartphones have their upside, there are disadvantages to the connectivity they provide – including the threat phones pose when used while behind the wheel.

  • Daylight Saving Time: Drowsy Driving Risks on the Rise
    Cvillerightnow.com

    As daylight saving time begins on Sunday, commuters will find themselves driving in darker conditions Monday morning, raising concerns about drowsy driving.

  • New Cameras on Virginia Beach School Buses to Catch Drivers Who Don't Stop
    WTKR.com

    Drivers who don't stop for Virginia Beach City Public Schools buses that are picking up or dropping off students could now face a $250 fine.

  • Grieving Mother of Teen Killed in Crash Pleads with Drivers to Slow Down
    MSN.com

    A heartbroken mother whose 16-year-old son died in a car accident is pleading with drivers to slow down, especially on rural roads.

    The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has launched a new advertising campaign highlighting the dangers of speed and complacency, especially on roads known to the driver. Between 2020 and 2024, 73% of road deaths occurred on rural roads.

  • U.S. Transportation Secretary Calls on D.C. Leaders to Boost Transportation Safety as Workers Return
    Transportation.gov

    Today, the U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy took action to urge Washington, D.C. leaders to restore greatness to our Nation’s Capital with a focus on improving the safety and security of the city’s transportation systems. In a series of letters, Secretary Duffy urged D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner, and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) CEO Randy Clarke to prioritize improvements to passenger security, crime reduction, and roadway safety.

  • Police Announce 2025 'Don't Press Your Luck' Anti-Drunk Driving Event
    AringtonVA.us

    St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Monday this year, meaning celebrations will be in full swing the weekend leading up to and on March 17. Unfortunately, some will make the dangerous decision to get behind the wheel after drinking, putting themselves and other travelers at risk of serious harm.

  • GHSA Reports Alarming 10-Year Increase in Pedestrian Fatalities
    Aashtojournal.transportation.org

    New analysis by the Governors Highway Safety Association noted that while pedestrian fatalities declined by 2.6 percent in the first half of 2024 versus the first half of 2023, they are up 12 percent compared to first half of 2019 and up 48 percent compared to the first half of 2014.

Week of February 24, 2025

Week of February 17, 2025

  • Researchers Leading the Way Toward Zero Emissions Future
    News.VT.edu

    No exhaust means no emissions, right?
    Not quite.
    It is commonly known that while electric vehicles do not produce tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions while driving, they do create debris from tire and brake abrasion. However, the degree to which they do and how that compares to internal combustion engine vehicles was largely unknown until the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute's Hesham Rakha investigated it.

  • Two Arrested Following Road Rage Incident
    PCPatriot.com

    On Monday, Feb. 10, 2025, a road rage incident involving two individuals that began on Interstate 81 southbound near the 105 mile marker proceeded to the Waffle House parking lot off of exit 98 in Dublin.

    Once there, Logan Parks of Galax, and William Barrett of Hillsville, engaged in mutual combat where a crow bar was used in the confrontation.

  • Virginia Ranked Ninth in Likelihood of Driver Hitting Wildlife
    Rocktownnow.com

    Virginia is the ninth likeliest state for a driver to hit wildlife, but environmental advocates are working to change that.

  • Toyota, GMC, Lexus Among 225,000+ Vehicles Recalled: Check for Updates
    USAtoday.com

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued multiple recalls last week, including notices for over 100,000 Toyota Tacoma trucks for a potential brake issue.

  • Medium-Duty Truck Essentials: Key Trends, Tips, and Innovations
    Worktruckonline.com

    The medium-duty truck market is evolving fast, and staying ahead requires insight into the latest trends, maintenance strategies, and emerging technologies. Whether you're looking to extend the life of your fleet, combat rising security threats, or make smarter truck purchasing decisions, we’ve gathered expert insights to help you navigate these challenges.

  • Deadly Decade: U.S. Traffic Deaths Soar by 30% Since 2014
    The National News Desk

    Driving on U.S. roads has gotten more dangerous during the past decade, with a 30% increase in traffic fatalities since 2014.

    During that time, many cities around the country have adopted traffic safety programs like Vision Zero to help reduce traffic deaths, but in most places it’s not working. At least not yet.

  • As more Amish move into rural Virginia, crashes between buggies and motor vehicles are on the rise. Finding a solution is complicated.
    Cardinal News

    When the buggies started arriving at the [crash] scene, Cumberland County Sheriff Darrell Hodges feared that a confrontation was about to erupt.

    Hodges had been called to the site of a horrible traffic crash on Cumberland Road in the early evening hours of July 14, 2024. A horse-drawn carriage that carried an Amish family of two adults and five children had been struck from behind by a pickup truck. All seven people were ejected from the carriage.

  • Buckle Up, Even in the Backseat, General Assembly Says
    Richmond Times Dispatch

    Even if you sit in a car’s back seat, you would have to buckle up, under legislation that’s moved through both the House of Delegates and state Senate and is heading to Gov. Youngkin's desk.

  • Ford Recalls 240,000 Explorers and Aviators Over Faulty Seat Belt Assembly
    Apnews.com

    Ford is recalling about 240,000 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs due to a problem with seat belt anchors that were improperly secured.

  • New Police Speed Camera Vans Can Detect Drunk Drivers from a Mile Away
    Insidenova.com

    Police have unveiled new hi-tech speed camera vans that can detect drunk and drug drivers from up to one mile away.

Week of February 10, 2025

  • Police Identify Pedestrian Killed After Driver Swerves onto Sidewalk
    12onyourside.com

    “A vehicle being operated southbound left the roadway onto the sidewalk, struck a pedestrian and collided with a structure,” Richmond Police said. “The vehicle continued along the sidewalk where it struck an unoccupied car before coming to a stop.”

  • AAA Shares Safe Driving Tips Ahead of Winter Storm
    Cbs19news.com

    With a winter storm on the way, road conditions are expected to become hazardous. While avoiding travel is the safest option, AAA is providing key tips for those who must be on the roads.

    Experts emphasize the importance of allowing extra time for travel, as slower speeds are necessary for maintaining control on icy or snow-covered roads.

  • AAA Research Reveals Most Pedestrian Fatalities Happen in Cities at Night
    Repairerdrivennews.com

    New research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows that the 80% increase in pedestrian fatalities over the last 15 years has occurred on urban arterial roads at night.

    “The continued rise in pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. since 2010 is a traffic safety challenge we need to address,”

  • Stay Off the Roads Wednesday to Give VDOT Time to Ensure Safety
    VDOT.Virginia.gov

    The deepest snowfall in several years has buried roadways in parts of the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands. Treacherous driving conditions are found throughout the region, where some counties received up to a foot of snow from Tuesday’s winter storm. Additional wintry mix is forecast for Wednesday afternoon, and could bring a coating of ice to previously plowed roadways.

  • Workforce Trends Study Sheds Light on Labor Challenges and Tech Solutions for Fleet Management
    Worktruckonline.com

    A new report from Samsara, The State of Connected Operations: Building for the Next Generation, digs into some of the biggest workforce challenges and opportunities facing physical operations, especially transportation, logistics, and fleet management.

    With more than 1,550 industry leaders surveyed across 21 industries and seven countries, the findings reinforce what many fleet managers already know: the workforce is changing, and fleets need to keep up.

  • Why Fleet Drivers Must Take Post-Collision Photographs for Safety and Documentation
    Worktruckonline.com

    When one of your drivers is in a collision, the first concern is whether they or others are injured. But after that, when your company’s name is on a vehicle, you should consider that the other motorist might file a lawsuit. What is the immediate course of action? Have your driver take photos as soon as possible.

  • Virginia Mother Fights for Stronger Seatbelt Laws After Losing Son in Tragic Crash
    WRIC.com

    Experts say buckling up is the best way to keep you and your family safe on the roads, yet data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows Virginia is the worst state in the country when it comes to people wearing a seat belt.

    That’s why one Virginia mom, inspired by a tragedy of her own, is trying to convince the General Assembly to pass tougher seat belt laws in Virginia.

  • Study Reveals Virginia Among the Worst States for Speed-Related Traffic Deaths
    Patch.com

    More than a third of drivers who died in fatal collisions on Virginia roads were driving too fast at the time of the crash, according to a new study that revealed the state is among the worst for traffic deaths linked to speed.

  • Encouraging Drivers to Rethink Road Safety and Make Safer Choices
    Miragenews.com

    A new US road safety campaign is challenging drivers to rethink their behaviour in a novel way.

    While most of us like to think we're safe drivers ourselves, we're also inclined to question the road-safety credentials of everyone else on the road. In fact, a 2022 Transurban survey (of 400 Greater Washington Area residents) found drivers overwhelmingly feel they are safe on the road while texting and speeding while simultaneously believing others on the road cannot safely drive while taking these same risks.

  • Study Identifies the High-Risk Drivers You Need to Know
    Forbes.com

    Driving will feel like navigating a minefield from time to time—especially when certain cars seem to be constantly in the way, speeding or swerving unpredictably. (And sometimes that’s you, admit it.) A new study from QuoteWizard by LendingTree highlights the vehicles linked to higher driving incidents and offers expert advice on not only how to stay safe on the road - but to possibly lower your insurance premiums.

Week of February 3, 2025

  • Virginia Mother Advocates for Stronger Seat Belt Laws After Personal Tragedy: 'It's So Important
    WTVR.com

    Through her grief, she started a foundation in his honor, which focused on sharing messages about seat belt safety with area schools.
    Her advocacy work led her to a shocking discovery.
    “So I found out that Virginia is the worst state in the country right now for seat belt usage at only 73%. The national average is 92%. We are literally the worst at wearing our seat belts. Half of our fatalities were unrestrained," King said, citing data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that ranked Virginia dead last in seat belt use percentage among states in the U.S.

  • Local Leaders Unite at Transportation Summit to Address Road Safety Challenges
    WSET.com

    On Friday they gathered for the Central Virginia Transportation Safety Summit to discuss a number of issues from speeding to distracted driving and pedestrian safety.
    During the event, leaders brainstormed ways to make their communities safer.
    This comes after more than 200 people died on Virginia roadways between 2018 and 2023, according to the executive director of the Central Virginia Planning District Commission, Alec Brebner.

  • Man Injured and Hospitalized Following Road Rage Incident
    WDBJ.com

    A man was hospitalized after a road rage incident Monday, February 3, according to the Danville Police Department.

  • Virginia Ranked Last in Seat Belt Usage by NHTSA in 2023
    CBS19news.com

    In 2023, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ranked Virginia dead last in the country for wearing a seat belt. With the national average reporting roughly 92% of people wearing their seat belts, Virginia reported only 73%.

  • Virginia House Cracks Down on Speed Camera ‘Cash Grab’ Tactics
    Virginiamercury.com

    With millions flowing from speed camera fines, Virginia lawmakers are pushing to curb potential profiteering and increase public oversight of the devices. A bill to bring more transparency and accountability to speed camera operations cleared the House this week and is now headed to the Senate.

  • Selecting the Right Coupling: A Key Decision for Fleet Efficiency and Safety
    Worktruckonline.com

    In the realm of trucking, where payloads vary from light to heavy and distances span local to international, coupling components play a pivotal role. Choosing the correct coupling is not just about connecting a truck to a trailer; it's about ensuring safety, efficiency, and productivity—tailored to the demands of both the medium-duty and heavy-duty industries.

  • Toyota and Lexus Issue Voluntary Seat Belt Recall for Safety Concerns
    Carcomplaints.com

    Model year 2025 Toyota Camry cars, 2025 Lexus NX SUVs and 2024-2025 Lexus RX SUVs may have problems with the second-row seat belts.

    About 41,000 of the vehicles are recalled in the U.S., and about 1,300 are recalled in Canada.

  • Fredericksburg District Warns of Potential Slick Road Conditions
    VDOT.virginia.gov

    Motorists should travel with caution Thursday morning with the potential for icy spots to develop on Fredericksburg area roads from a wintry mix of rain and sleet.

  • Virginia State Police and DMV Encourage Super Bowl Partygoers to Plan for a Safe Ride Home
    TheGazettevirginian.com

    With the biggest football game of the year this upcoming Sunday, the Virginia State Police and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles are urging drivers in the commonwealth to plan ahead, and have a sober ride home planned for after Super Bowl LIX.

  • AAA Urges Drivers to Brace for Freezing Rain and Ice Hazards on the Roads
    Virginianreview.com

    Forget how high the mercury climbed yesterday with the spring-like temps, winter is roaring back with a vengeance today with a threat of wintry weather across parts of the state. Areas in northwestern and western Virginia as well as higher elevations along the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley are likely to see the biggest impacts from this storm. But parts of central Virginia could see some icing as the storm comes in overnight with temperatures around the freezing mark.

Week of January 27, 2025

  • Virginia House Passes Bill to Tackle Speeding Offenses
    Henricocitizen.com

    The House of Delegates approved a bill Wednesday that would allow courts to require speed-monitoring devices for drivers convicted of reckless driving or speeding over 100 mph.

    The bill, HB2096, which passed by a 81-16 vote, is aimed at preventing speeding in Virginia.

  • Kia Recalls Over 80,000 Niro SUVs Due to Potential Airbag and Seat Belt Issues
    USAtoday.com

    Kia is recalling more than 80,000 of its 2023-2025 Niro SUVs over a wiring issue that could prevent the air bags and seat belts from working properly.

  • Study Finds Automatic Emergency Braking Progressing, While Trump Seeks to End Mandate
    Forbes.com

    Improvements in safety technology known as advanced driver assistance system, or ADAS, are improving and responsible for a sharp drop in rear-end vehicle-to-vehicle crashes as well as a decrease in collisions with non-motorists, according to a report released Monday by the Partnership for Analytics Research in Traffic Safety, or PARTS.

  • 70% of Fleets Affected by Distracted Driving, with Cell Phones as the Leading Cause
    Thetrucker.com

    Seventy percent of businesses have been impacted by distracted driving incidents, according to a new survey conducted by Teletrac Navman with cell phone use being cited as the leading cause by 68% of survey respondents.

  • Drive Safe Hampton Roads Offers 757 Sober Rides for The Big Game Sunday 2025
    Millitarynews.com

    Who will you be rooting for during the Big Game on February 9, 2025? Whether you’re hosting a viewing party or attending one, everyone has an important job: Help keep impaired drivers off the road, so everyone can make it home safely on game night. If you plan to drink alcohol or use legal or illegal drugs, plan for a safe and sober ride home. If you’re hosting a party, take care of your guests. If you are in the Hampton Roads area, free or reduced Lyft ride-shares are being offered by Drive Safe HR to impaired drivers throughout Hampton Roads on Big Game Sunday at www.DriveSafeHR.org/757-sober-ride

  • Be A backseat driver: National Passenger Safety Week
    Dasselcokato.com

    A staggering 46,000 people were killed on United States roadways in 2023. During National Passenger Safety Week, Jan. 20 to 27, passengers were empowered to speak up when their lives or those of others are in danger from reckless drivers.

  • Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls: A Key to Improving Driver Safety
    Worktruckonline.com

    After accidents on the road, slips, trips, and falls are a leading cause of driver injury. Unsurprisingly, Acuity Insurance data shows slips, trips, and falls are most likely from December through February. With slippery conditions being more common during the winter, these accidents are more likely but not inevitable.

  • Driver Shortages or Fleet Retention Issues? Let’s Explore Solutions
    Worktruckonline.com

    The driver shortage has been a hot topic for years, and it doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. While the causes of the shortage are complex and vary from region to region, one thing is clear: fleet managers are feeling the impact. Trucks don’t move without drivers, and when you’re short on drivers, it hits your bottom line.

  • Mothers Demand Stricter Driving Laws in Virginia After Tragic Losses
    Virginiamercury.com

    Two Virginia mothers who lost their children in car crashes are turning their grief into action, working with state lawmakers to push for stricter driver and passenger safety laws. Their efforts could lead to new penalties for unlicensed minors driving, expanded driver education in public schools, and a requirement for all adults in a vehicle to wear seat belts.

  • 66 Express Outside the Beltway Reflects on 2024 Community Impact, Plans for 2025
    Princewilliamliving.com

    As we begin another year, I-66 Express Mobility Partners (I-66 EMP) reflects on the impacts our community partners in 2024—strengthening communities, supporting families, and creating opportunities for a brighter future. Through partnerships with dedicated nonprofits, I-66 Express Mobility Partners has helped address food insecurity, expand access to education, promote teen driver safety, and support our nation’s heroes.

Week of January 20, 2025

  • Mom’s Heartbreaking Loss Leads to Push for Stricter Teen Driver Safety Laws in Virginia
    WTKR.com

    Lawmakers in Richmond are currently considering a series of bills aimed at making the roads safer for teenage drivers.

    At the heart of this initiative is Tammy McGee, a mother whose life was irrevocably altered five years ago when her son, Conner, lost his life at just 15 and a half years old.

  • Top Self-Driving Cars on the Market Today: The Best of the Nearly Autonomous
    WRIC.com

    Self-driving cars, also known as autonomous vehicles, are not yet available for purchase by consumers. The combination of computer processing power and advanced automotive camera/sensor technology required to create a full self-driving vehicle, capable of operating safely in all driving locations and conditions, is still several years (at least) away.

  • Highway Safety Grant Fund Applications Now Open Until February 28
    Realradio804.com

    Each year, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides vital federal grant funds to organizations dedicated to improving safety and saving lives on Virginia’s roadways. If your organization is committed to making a difference through traffic safety initiatives, we encourage you to apply for a highway safety grant from DMV. These grants support Virginia-based organizations like nonprofits, colleges and universities, law enforcement agencies and state and local government agencies, in implementing programs designed to reduce traffic fatalities, injuries and crashes.

  • AAA Offers Icy Driving Tips as Arctic Blast Approaches
    WRIC.com

    As Richmond and other parts of Central Virginia brace for an artic blast, AAA experts are sharing tips on driving in icy conditions.

    “What drivers really need to be concerned about with this storm coming in is that it’s starting out as rain,” said AAA Mid-Atlantic spokesperson Morgan Dean. “So that really is the concern that there could be some ice building up on the roadways tonight, and tomorrow.”

  • Travel with Caution: Hazardous Conditions Expected Tonight in Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula
    Vdot.virginia.gov

    Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews will be mobilized in emergency response tonight and Wednesday morning to treat for hazardous road conditions that may develop from light snow forecast for coastal areas of the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula.

  • Debunking 7 Common Winter Driving Myths: What You Really Need to Know
    Worktruckonline.com

    According to FEMA, winter weather contributes to more than 540,000 accidents in the U.S. each year. Whether it is snow, ice, or freezing temperatures, the season presents several challenges that can compromise safety, and some common misconceptions for dealing with these conditions can actually increase risk for drivers.

  • Virginia State Police Introduce New Safety Inspection Sticker for Drivers
    Virginiastar.net

    With the changeover in the calendar year from 2024 to 2025, vehicles in Virginia that have passed safety inspections are now receiving a new safety inspection sticker. The sticker, which features the color green for the first time, includes multiple changes from previous iterations. The changes are designed to make the inspection sticker more difficult to counterfeit

  • Speak Up for Safety: Tips to Be a Responsible Passenger and Promote Safe Driving
    Localsyr.com

    For the third year in a row, National Passenger Safety Week is empowering passengers to “speak up” when they feel their lives are in danger due to a reckless driver, especially when they witness any form of distracted driving.

  • Passenger Priorities: Key Tips for Ensuring Safety During National Passenger Safety Week
    FCPDnews.com

    Safe driving is crucial, especially for teens learning to drive and children who depend on others for safety. National Passenger Safety Week highlights the importance of building safe driving habits and ensuring all passengers are properly secured.

  • ‘I Will Not Stop’: Williamsburg Mother Fights to Change Virginia’s Seatbelt Law After Losing Son
    WAVY.com

    A Williamsburg mother hopes lawmakers in Richmond won’t take a back seat as she pushes for changes to Virginia’s current seat belt law.

    Christy King said her 18-year-old son Christopher wasn’t wearing his seatbelt when he was killed in a crash nearly five years ago.

Week of January 13, 2025

Week of January 6, 2025

Week of December 30, 2024

  • Holiday Season Brings Increased Risks for Teen Drivers; Foundation Shares Safety Tips
    WTVR.com

    According to the CDC, teenagers aged 16 to 19 are at the highest risk for car crashes, with this age group being almost three times more likely to experience a fatal incident compared to others.

  • Authorities Boost Patrols to Curb Drunk Driving Ahead of New Year’s
    WRIC.com

    With New Year’s celebrations just days away, safety officials are urging drivers to avoid the dangers of drunk driving.

  • Bicyclist Killed in Crash with Car on Route 1 in Chester on New Year's Eve
    A bicyclist was hit by a car and killed along Route 1 in Chester on New Year's Eve.

    A man has died after he was hit by a car in Chesterfield on New Year’s Eve.
    On Tuesday, Dec. 31, Chesterfield County Police were called to the 16500 block of Route 1 at about 6:42 p.m. for the report of a crash involving a car and a bicycle.

  • Your Organization Can Save Lives on Virginia Roads – DMV Offers Support
    VirginianReview.com

    Each year, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides vital federal grant funds to organizations dedicated to improving safety and saving lives on Virginia’s roadways. If your organization is committed to making a difference through traffic safety initiatives, we encourage you to apply for a highway safety grant from DMV.

  • Tips for Staying Safe on the Roads This New Year's Eve
    WFXRtv.com

    New Year’s Eve is one of the most dangerous nights on the roads according to AAA. Data from the Department of Motor Vehicles says that there were 105 crashes involving alcohol last year, leaving 68 people injured, and 3 dead.

  • Driver Caught Speeding at 133 MPH in 55 MPH Zone on I-264 in Virginia Beach
    WAVY.com

    Virginia State Police clocked a driver going 133 mph in a 55-mph zone in Virginia Beach.
    State Police posted a redacted copy of the summons to its social media pages just before New Year’s as a reminder to “Drive smart, stay safe!”

  • Applications for Highway Safety Grant Fund Now Open Through February 28
    Newsbreak.com

    Each year, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides vital federal grant funds to organizations dedicated to improving safety and saving lives on Virginia’s roadways. If your organization is committed to making a difference through traffic safety initiatives, we encourage you to apply for a highway safety grant from DMV.

  • Virginia Tech Awarded $249,654 DOT Grant
    NRVNews.com

    The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has awarded Virginia Tech a $249,654 grant. The funding supports a project to collect and provide pedestrian data as it relates to advancing the safety and mobility of all people in U.S. transportation systems.

  • Winter Driving Tips: Stay Safe on the Roads in Cold Weather
    WAVY.com

    Winter seems to finally be rearing its cold, chilly head in the Hampton Roads region, and 10 On Your Side wants to make sure you stay safe on the roads as the chance for inclement weather increases.

  • ADAS Sensors Post-Repair: A Hidden Danger to Road Safety
    Forbes.com

    More than 90% of new vehicles have some level of ADAS, which shows the original equipment manufacturers' (OEMs) willingness to invest in this technology. Even with this market growing, it doesn't appear to be fast enough, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has finalized a new mandate (FMVSS No. 127) to make automatic emergency breaking (AEB) standard in all vehicles starting in 2029. NHSTA predicts that this "will save at least 360 lives a year and prevent at least 24,000 injuries annually.

Week of December 23, 2024

  • Ad Council and TVB Unveil 21st Annual Project Roadblock to Combat Drunk Driving
    WRIC.com

    The Ad Council, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Television Bureau of Advertising (TVB), today announced the 21st annual Project Roadblock initiative. Local broadcast TV stations across the country will donate advertising time to air anti-drunk driving PSAs reminding viewers to make safe choices this holiday season.

  • Virginia State Police Urge Safe Driving as Holiday Season Kicks Off
    BTW21.com

    As the holidays and New Year approach, Virginia State Police are calling on all drivers to prioritize safety on the roads.

  • New Poll Reveals Over Half of Virginia Drivers Are Distracted on the Road
    PCPatriot.com

    The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and DRIVE SMART Virginia are sharing an important behind-the-wheel safety reminder this holiday season – your presence is the real present. In the midst of your busy schedule, please, buckle up and put your phone down to help ensure you arrive alive.

  • Poll Finds More Than Half of Virginia Drivers Engaging in Distracted Driving
    TheRoanokeStar.com

    As we approach the holiday season, it’s crucial to recognize that using a handheld device behind the wheel, is not just a bad habit—it’s an epidemic. Just as we treat addiction with urgency, we must address this deadly behavior, because distracted driving is taking lives,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative.

  • New Statistics Reveal Safest and Most Dangerous States to Drive
    WRIC.com

    New statistical research has revealed the safest and most dangerous states to drive in, shedding light on critical road safety statistics and trends across the United States. The data highlights the need for increased caution and awareness on the roads, regardless of location, as accident rates and roadway conditions vary significantly from state to state.

  • Yorktown Mom Campaigns for Safe Driving Laws in Memory of Late Son
    WYDaily.com

    In January 2025, a third potential law in Conner’s name will be presented to the state legislature. The proposed law states that a minor who has no operator’s license or who has a learner’s permit but operates a motor vehicle in violation of any provision shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.

  • Expert Urges Caution on the Road During Holiday Travel Season: 'A Serious Concern'
    WTVR.com

    CBS 6 spoke with David Reich from the National Road Safety Foundation about the importance of safe driving. He warns that one wrong decision can turn a festive celebration into a tragic event, especially for teen drivers who are on holiday break.

  • Four in Ten Rear Seat Passengers Killed in Crashes Not Wearing Seat Belts
    Radionewshub.com

    Parents are being urged to ensure seat belt wearing becomes “second nature” for children as figures show 40% of rear seat car passengers killed in crashes are not belted up.

  • Drive Safe HR Offers Free/Reduced Lyft Sober Rides for Impaired Drivers on New Year's Eve 2024
    Militarynews.com

    Start your New Year’s resolutions off right; make sure you have a designated driver. This New Year’s Eve, plan ahead for a safe and sober ride home. Free or reduced Lyft sober rides are being offered by Drive Safe HR to impaired drivers throughout Hampton Roads on NYE 2024.

  • Farmers and Rural Motorists Urged to Exercise Caution at Railroad Crossings
    Newsbreak.com

    As railroads facilitate the movement of agricultural products and other goods through Virginia and beyond, motorists and farm equipment operators are reminded to practice safe passage at railroad crossings. Many rural railroad crossings typically are private with limited safety features. Some areas lack gates or lights that signal an oncoming train.

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