News

Ratings that reflect progress across the country to pass 16 important traffic safety laws and countermeasures to combat dangerous driving have been announced.

The best way to keep you and your loved one safe is to have a plan.

Drive Safe Hampton Roads, or DSHR, is sponsoring 757 Sober Ride on New Year’s Eve.

Some common medications -- including antidepressants, sleep aids and painkillers -- may dull the driving skills of seniors, a new study finds.

New National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data shows across the nation, drunk driving deaths were the highest in December in almost 15 years – and it’s unfortunately a trend we continue to see in Virginia.

At least three families have gotten a phone call they never wanted to receive in 2023 that their high school-aged sons - had been killed in a driving [crash].

Alongside restrictions on when they can drive, drivers under the age 18 are also only allowed to have one passenger under 21 in their car.

The findings have potential implications for the safety of older patients who may benefit from counseling about safe driving.

Traffic deaths are up 18% since 2019, despite fewer miles being driven. Distracted driving may play a part.

As the Virginia State Police prepares for a weekend of mixed precipitation across most of the Commonwealth, Virginians are encouraged to get ready and plan ahead, too.

In a world that’s always on the move, ensuring the safety of both drivers and pedestrians is the top priority. As we approach 2024, the landscape of traffic safety technology is undergoing significant changes

These nine New Year's resolutions to drive more responsibly in the year ahead will help make those roads safer for yourself and other drivers, including law enforcement and first responders who risk their lives every day working traffic incidents.

As a parent or guardian, successfully guiding your teen through this process demands patience, clear communication, and a steadfast dedication to safety.

FHWA and the road construction industry agree on one thing: The safety of crews in work zones is a priority. Ramped-up construction means the risk to highway workers is as great or greater this year than last.

145 agencies across the commonwealth are taking part, with 646 saturation patrols and 71 sobriety checkpoints planned through New Year’s Day.

Christmas is now in the rear view mirror, and it’s time to start making New Year’s resolutions.

Holidays mean travel for many people. Keep yourself and your fellow travelers safe by following these tips while traveling during the holiday season.

In 2023, traffic fatalities seemed to be on the decline from recent years, but the numbers are still higher than before the pandemic — and pedestrian deaths on roadways remain at crisis levels.

The programs are intended to decrease impaired driving and speeding and increase seat belt use, as well as to promote the safety of pedestrians, motorcyclists, bicyclists and drivers in communities, according to the DMV.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) announced that all 20 participating automakers have fulfilled a voluntary pledge to equip nearly all the light vehicles they produce for the U.S. market with automatic emergency braking (AEB).

Since 2010, pedestrian deaths have risen in the U.S. by more than 70 percent, according to the Governor's Highway Safety Association and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In Hampton Roads, preliminary data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles shows 133 crashes, 77 injuries, and three deaths in the region between December 31, 2022 and January 1, 2023.

432 Virginians were injured in alcohol related crashes last holiday season

Free or reduced Lyft ride-shares are being offered once again to alcohol-impaired drivers throughout Hampton Roads on New Year’s Eve.

Section 24111 of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Ref. 49 U.S.C. 355), requires the establishment of a Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC).

The annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign aims to drastically reduce drunk driving on our nation’s roadways through a two-pronged approach of education and enforcement.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates that more than 10,000 lives would be saved every year if drivers with illegal blood alcohol levels were kept off the road

Virginia’s Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over DUI enforcement and public education campaign is on a mission to keep Virginia’s roads safe from drunk drivers this holiday season.

Today, the American Trucking Associations and professional drivers from ATA’s Share the Road highway safety program encouraged the estimated 115.2 million people traveling over the holiday season this year to practice safety as they hit the road for the holidays.

During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, special attention must be paid to one of the leading causes of traffic fatalities in the U.S.

Technology continues to introduce new distractions to deal with. Defensive driving can be an important piece of a strategy to help combat distracted driving.

Arriving at your destination safely always requires thought and preparation — especially in the winter. Making sure that you and your vehicle are ready for winter travel is vital to your safety.

Collisions in parking lots are one of the most common collisions every year. They typically don’t get a great deal of attention because they usually don’t involve injury or death.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) today announced the 11th edition of the “Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways,” known as the MUTCD.

In 2021 alone, more than 7,500 pedestrians died on American streets. And cycling fatalities rose more than 44 % between 2010 and 2020.

A clear glaze that forms on surfaces because of a light freezing rain or because of melting and refreezing of snow or ice, black ice is especially dangerous because it looks like regular black pavement to drivers...

NIOSH says research has shown that drivers who are using cell phones may be watching the road but fail to see up to 50% of the information in their driving environment.

Sometime around 2009, American roads started to become deadlier for pedestrians, particularly at night.

The shift to self-driving cars may lead to lower cognitive or coordination skills and spatial memory.

In 2021, there were 164 fatalities from collisions with animals, most of them from October through December, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

While we are enjoying the warmth of the holiday season, crews with VDOT are already planning for what could head our way during the colder winter months.

According to a new CMT analysis, Christmas and New Year’s Day are the most distracted days of the year. Christmas also sees the most speeding of any day of the year while New Year’s comes in fourth.

This material has been prepared for general information purposes only. It is not guaranteed to be current and should be independently verified.

The US Census Bureau says the 70 and older population is expected to reach 53 million by 2030

Many people are planning their holiday travel next week, but before you hit the road, remember to buckle up.

Sometime around 2009, American roads started to become deadlier for pedestrians, particularly at night. Fatalities have risen since, reversing the effects of decades of safety improvements.

In 2021, Congress directed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to mandate a passive technology to try to avert more than 10,000 road deaths annually. The law requires a new technology safety standard by November 2024 if the technology is ready.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of seatbelt injuries, delving into their various types, the underlying causes, and the preventive measures that can be taken to minimize the risks associated with them.

VDOT's new website is live, and is the first redesign in 15 years, according to a news release from the agency.

Traffic deaths are still above pre-pandemic levels but lower than the 31,880 deaths reported in the first nine months of 2022.

A plethora of studies confirm that speeding, red-light and school bus stop-arm camera programs are a proven way to change driver behavior, resulting in increased safety for everyone on the road.

With more than 13,000 people dying in alcohol-related crashes in 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is exploring ways that cars and trucks could use sensors to block people from driving drunk.

The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority launched a new safe driving campaign to inform people of the risks of driving under the influence of cannabis.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, ROADWAY FATALITIES AND THE FATALITY RATE declined consistently for 30 years, but progress has stalled over the last decade and receded in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic.

Hundreds of thousands of lives could be saved and tens of millions of crashes prevented thanks to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning.

Marcy Edwards, senior research engineer of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), recently announced the institute is developing a path for the future of IIHS rear-impact testing.

Each year in the U.S. thousands of people are killed, and hundreds of thousands injured, in crashes in which driver distraction played a role.

Car crash deaths surged 27% over the 10 years ending in 2021. Experts are considering everything from new technology to changes in advertising to stop it.

The report makes several recommendations for states and traffic safety partners to identify and overcome key barriers when creating or expanding an automated enforcement program.

“Daylighting” intersections to improve visibility for drivers is an effective way to make crosswalks safer for pedestrians.

Do Americans hit lethal speeds because they're in a rush, or because they have no idea that they're increasing their chances of death with every tick of the odometer?

Drunk driving fatality rates surge around the New Year’s holiday, but with rates increasing overall, this holiday season could see even more deaths.

In December of 2022, there were 604 alcohol-related crashes in Virginia, and there were 14 deaths.

This report supports the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Roadway Safety Strategy, which includes a special focus on reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries.

Alcohol, distraction or speeding were the most deadly factors for pedestrians and cyclists in Virginia for at least the past three years.

Safety advocates say it's time for automakers to adopt new technology in cars to reduce speeding.

Virginia teens are being encouraged to jingle their way to a safe holiday—and win a cash prize of up to $500--by creating a safe driving song or tune for a statewide competition.

Rural roads are beautiful, but they’re hiding a deadly secret – nearly half of all fatal crashes occur on them, even though only 19 percent of the U.S. population lives in rural areas. 

As a number of initiatives are underway to discourage distracted driving, a new report highlights drowsy driving as another risky behavior requiring intervention.

Speed-related fatalities increased by 39% between 2017 and 2022, according to the report.

The number of adults 65 and older has increased by 29% between 2012 and 2021 in the United States, and many older adults continue to be active drivers on the nation's roads.

Alcohol, Drugs and Fatigue Are Major Factors in Fatal Holiday Crashes; National Road Safety Foundation Urges Motorists to Plan Ahead for Holiday Driving.

Driving in the winter presents a series of challenges to you as a driver. You’ll experience reduced grip thanks to ice and rain and may have to drive in the dark more often when the days grow short.

Virginia experienced a 53% decrease in the number of fatal traffic crashes over the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday, according to Virginia State Police (VSP).

During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we call on everyone to help save a life by planning ahead, calling for a ride, only driving when sober, and helping friends and loved ones do the same every time.

A new report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety identifies six types of drivers by analyzing risky driving behaviors.

Over the last few decades, the technology available in our cars has advanced by leaps and bounds.

On a Saturday afternoon in January 2022, a 2018 Dodge Challenger ran through a stop sign in Las Vegas, picked up the pace to a speed of 103 miles per hour and flew through an intersection on a red light.

Bike trips in the United States have soared since 2019—and fatalities have increased along with them.

New data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows that it is not only vehicle height, but also the shape of the front end of a vehicle, that can put pedestrians at risk.

As the holiday season approaches, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is taking proactive steps to ensure road safety for all Virginians.

Natalie Rainer has added her voice to the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) message.

The overarching purpose of the committee is to provide advice and recommendations to the transportation secretary on safety regulations to reduce underride crashes.

With an estimated 55.4 million people traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday this year, the American Trucking Associations and professional drivers from ATA’s Share the Road program are encouraging Americans to practice safety on the roads.

As people head out of town for family gatherings — and gather locally for libations with friends — police in Arlington and throughout Virginia will be on the lookout for traffic and safety violations.

Six teens, aged 14 to 17, were taken to hospitals with life-threatening injuries, Fairfax County police said. Many hadn't used seat belts

Day and night before Thanksgiving (aka Black Wednesday, Awkward Wednesday or Whiskey Wednesday) are among most dangerous times on the road, traffic safety group says.

A horrific car crash that killed nine has federal safety officials calling for systematic responses to traffic violence — including the aggressive car ads that may inspire motorists to hit the gas.

Fewer daylight hours, snowy or icy conditions, limited visibility – these are some of the hazards drivers can encounter during the winter.

One father is sharing an important message with students about distracted driving. Joel Feldman's daughter Casey was killed by a distracted driver 14 years ago when she was just 21 years old.

People are driving fewer miles than they were in 2019, but more are dying on roadways.

Be alert to red flags suggesting that a family member – or you –– should consider hanging up the keys.

Over the holiday period in 2020, 36% of fatalities involved an alcohol-impaired driver.

Narrowing lanes can improve road safety and reclaim space for other uses.

Vehicles with higher front ends and blunt profiles are 45% more likely to cause fatalities in crashes with pedestrians than smaller cars and trucks, according to new research published Tuesday by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The annual awareness week is meant to serve as a reminder to the public of Move Over laws and Traffic Incident Management responder training for all professionals who work traffic incidents.

Cyclists and pedestrians are reporting a rise in distracted driving. The phenomenon is both real and legal in many states.

Critics argue that pedestrian safety is being compromised by the practice.

Eventually, driving can become unsafe for an older driver, their passengers, and others on the road. If you notice a decline in driving abilities in a loved one, or in yourself, what's the best way to handle this?

Nearly half of Virginia’s marijuana consumers report not always having a plan for a sober ride, according to a news release by the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority.

Much of the research looking directly at the impact of right-on-red policies is years if not decades old, but both sides argue it's still relevant.

Targeted interventions aim to reduce the higher pedestrian death rates in communities of color and low-income communities and make cities more walkable for all.

A “universal” decline in walking trips from 2019 to 2022 comes as pedestrian deaths hit a record high, according to a new report. But there’s a bright spot.

Many teens say they've driven while they feel drowsy — and they believe that it’s not as dangerous as driving while drunk or distracted.

The end of Daylight Saving Time can disturb sleep patterns and brings shorter daylight for Virginia commuters. AAA has safe driving tips.

Complete Streets, Vision Zero and the safe system approach all aim to improve pedestrian safety. The federal government is finally putting big dollars behind the effort, too.

Every minute of every day, law enforcement, fire and rescue, emergency medical services (EMS), public works, transportation, towing, and other responders work roadside to make roadways safe for all road users. These traffic incident responders put their lives at risk when clearing each of the nearly 7 million annual motor vehicle crashes or the broader range of incidents such as stalled vehicles or roadway debris.

Traffic safety advocates are reminding drivers about the new changes to the Move Over law, especially as Daylight Saving Time ends.

Experts cite risky, distracted and impaired driving — as well as less traffic enforcement — as factors sending pedestrian fatalities to new highs. Can new funding reverse the tide?

The new PSAs, entitled "Really Scary," tap into the insight that the temptation for tech is visceral and ever-present, so drivers might not realize when they shift into distracted driving.

Rising costs related to inexperienced drivers and distracted driving are behind a new effort to educate the public — particularly teen drivers — about sharing the road with truckers.

Researchers at Virginia Tech’s Transportation Institute will soon hand the keys to lawmakers and developers, after creating a blueprint for how self-driving vehicles can safely interact with other cars on state roadways.

Halloween might be a time for fictional scares like vampires and zombies, but over in Giles County on Tuesday, students at Narrows High School got to see some real-life scares using simulated emergency situations.

It’s uncomfortable to talk about older adults and driving, a fact that many families who’ve worried about a loved one’s dwindling eyesight, reaction time, or cognition behind the wheel are well aware of.

The number of pedestrians killed by vehicles in the United States has surged over the last several years, with fatalities increasing at a faster rate than any other type of traffic-related death, recent data shows.

William Byrd High School event.

From March 2020 to March 2022, the cumulative miles driven in the U.S. climbed by 22 percent (Federal Highway Administration).

The arrival of fall brings shorter daylight hours, leading to higher risk of crashes on our roads.

At the 2023 Safety Summit hosted by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, key federal modal agency officials discussed ways to reduce roadway fatalities and injuries to zero.

The holiday season is quickly approaching. With Halloween coming up and Thanksgiving just around the corner, authorities across southwest Virginia are encouraging us to travel safely.

The crash and fatality rates for drivers under 21 have improved drastically over the past two decades – more so than for other drivers.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has launched ToGetThere, the nonprofit’s first new campaign in over 30 years, urging Americans to take action against impaired driving this holiday season.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on roadway safety nationwide.
Data scientists presented theoretical reasons for this at September’s DRIVE SMART Virginia Distracted Driving Summit, held in Blacksburg and partially sponsored by Virginia Farm Bureau.

New preliminary data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration shows a noticeable drop in large-truck crash injuries and fatalities, a positive development as the agency considers new rules designed to prevent such crashes and mitigate their effects.

According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, in 2021 there were about 21,000 distracted driving-related crashes which was up 17% from the year 2020.

The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) is making new efforts to warn people about the dangers of driving while high.

According to data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there were over 17,000 crashes last year involving teen drivers, 89 of them were fatal.

As winter weather encroaches, VDOT has issued an advisory encouraging drivers to be prepared with an emergency winter driving kit.

Strasburg High School students recently got a crash course on the impacts of distracted and impaired driving through DRIVE SMART Virginia's simulators.

Now in Virginia, drivers who approach any stationary vehicle along the roadway displaying flashing lights or other warning signals must slow down and move over one lane, if it is safe to do so, or face a fine.

Waning daylight hours and the end of Daylight Saving Time will bring darker evening commuting and reduced visibility.

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), home of the Virginia Highway Safety Office, is encouraging parents to talk with their teens about the importance of driving safely and urges teens to speak up if they see something dangerous or feel unsafe in a vehicle.

Incident serves as "a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving practices," police said.

The U.S. Postal Service held a National Logistics Symposium for employees from Oct. 24-26 in Kansas City. The symposium provided information on the latest driver technology, safe driving strategies, driver training and an award recognition for USPS tractor trailer operators.

Virginia Tech Transportation Institute researchers and their partners recently put an autonomous Ford F-150 through a series of driving scenarios related to public safety on the 395 express lanes in Arlington, Va.

RVers can learn from highway mishaps like these and stay safer while traveling on the road. These are just a few examples of what we’ve experienced.

Two new studies show that GPS-tracking and roadside cameras can pinpoint when and how often drivers use smartphones while on the road.

It’s National Teen Driver Safety Week! From October 15-21, the National Highway Association as well as other national traffic agencies work to spread the word about teens driving safely and making sure they know the rules of the road.

The only thing scarier than zombies and witches loose on the streets is an impaired driver. This Halloween, make happy memories, not tragic nightmares by getting behind the wheel after drinking.

AAA is reminding drivers that this is the time of year when they are most likely to strike a deer, which can be both dangerous and now, significantly more expensive than in years past.

When your teen gets a driver’s license, you'll likely have mixed emotions. While you’re off the hook for carpools, it’s scary to think about your baby behind the wheel.

The National Distracted Driving Coalition (NDDC) urges drivers to “set it and forget it” on the second annual National Do Not Disturb While Driving Day, being held Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023.

November is still the most dangerous month with an industry-estimated 297,000 collisions.

Virginia State Police (VSP) is launching a campaign to crack down on dangerous driving on the Commonwealth’s interstates — starting with Interstate 64.

Strict driver distraction policies, cellphone blockers, and zero-tolerance mandates will not solve the larger issues of distracted driving in commercial trucking.

Young drivers are nearly four times more likely to be involved in a fatal traffic crash than their older counterparts, but a GHSA report confirms that crash and fatality rates for drivers under 21 have improved drastically over the past two decades – more so than for other drivers.

Police discovered that a vehicle had hit a VDOT Safety Support Patrol truck, and had also struck the VDOT worker who was outside the VDOT truck at the time.

Virginia saw a rise in crashes last year involving deer, causing safety experts to warn drivers to be cautious on the road.

Using a cell phone or engaging with other in-vehicle technologies has become one of the leading causes of vehicle crashes across the Commonwealth.

In the U.S., there are approximately two million collisions between vehicles and animals every year, according to the Federal Highway Administration.

Advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence, offer new ways to understand the prevalence and dangers of distracted driving.

If you’re headed cross country or just a few hours away, follow these tips for fall road trip safety with your family.

The number of pedestrians struck and killed by vehicles reached—and then surpassed—a 40-year high in 2021, according to the latest national data released by the Governors Highways Safety Association, a nonprofit representation of US state and territorial highway safety offices.

National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 15-21, 2023 and the National Road Safety Foundation reminds parents that this is a good time to have a conversation with teens about safe driving habits.

When aging eyes meet nighttime roadways, driving can be hazardous. Here’s how you can make the road you travel safer.

Trinette Porter wept uncontrollably as she described Sunday’s sudden and preventable death of 52-year-old Craig Boone, who is affectionately known as Bread.

The “do not disturb while driving” setting on your cellphone isn’t just for remaining undisturbed during meetings or movies. It also can limit phone distractions behind the wheel and help make roadways safer.

Oct. 15-21 is National Teen Driver Safety Week. Because car crashes are the leading cause of preventable death for teens, DriveitHOME and Honda want every parent to be prepared to protect their new drivers behind the wheel.

Low-cost strategies include conducting a walk-through of school grounds and creating use policies for outside groups.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving held its annual Walk Like MADD event Saturday in Henrico’s Dorey Park.

With many students, staff, and visitors using the campus roads daily, ensuring safe movement for pedestrians and vehicles becomes a top priority.

Some common medications -- including antidepressants, sleep aids and painkillers -- may dull the driving skills of seniors, a new study finds.

In the fight to make roadways safer, lawmakers are toughening handheld and texting bans to make cellphone use while driving a primary offense.

News of the indictment came several days after a Pedestrian Safety Study of the downtown campus was released by the university and City of Richmond.

Drive Smart Virginia provided a driving simulator for students to see the difficulty of driving distracted first-hand.

From July 10 to 16, officers issued 4,494 tickets/citations and 5,756 warnings to drivers – commercial motor vehicle and passenger vehicle drivers combined.

The latest federal data shows more than 2,600 people died in crashes involving a teen driver in 2021. That’s up 11% from the previous year, according to a report released by the National Transportation Safety Administration in August.

This is the time of year when drivers are most likely to strike a deer, which can be both dangerous and now, significantly more expensive than in years past.

Roadside cameras and telematics data could provide a more complete picture of driver cellphone use, two new studies from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety suggest.

Students across the Commonwealth are one month into the school year, and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) remind motorists of the importance of school bus safety laws and being extra alert for children getting on and off school buses.

Government test data shows new passenger vehicles in the U.S. are extremely safe, but roadway deaths are steadily rising

New data reveals big gains in cycling since the start of Covid-19. But there’s a warning, too.

As Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Month approaches, every road user should be mindful of an alarming uptick in nationwide fatalities involving walkers and bikers.

IndyCar champ Josef Newgarden says that driving a car on the street has more in common with zipping around the ovals than you might think.

Teaching actual driving skills and rules is important, but there are other things that go beyond the basics that will help transform your teen from a novice driver into an expert.

Advances in ADAS are making roads safer than ever before. But how safe? How many crashes will today’s technology prevent and how many lives will be saved?

Teens' biggest safety threat is getting behind the wheel; parental involvement is key to keeping young drivers safe on the roads

An estimated 19,515 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes, representing a decrease of about 3.3% as compared to 20,190 fatalities in the first half of 2022.

New research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that drivers who use advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) grow more comfortable with the technology over time -sometimes too comfortable.

During the 15-week campaign, which runs from Memorial Day weekend through the end of Labor Day Weekend, driving on the roads remained a risky endeavor for our Sailors and Marines.

Walking through the yard of her grandmother's home in Bumpass, Va., Kayla Smith can recall the many weekends she spent there as a child playing with her cousins.

A new mainstream media report is drawing attention to an increase in traffic fatalities despite an increase in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) meant to make vehicles safer.

If you have Android Auto in your car, you’re in luck: it is one of the infotainment systems with the most compatible applications and that supports the most customization.

Once the musings of movie makers and authors, self-driving cars are finally beginning to edge into reality.

Protestors called for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to require side guard and stronger rear guards on all tractor trailers.

Nearly half of all Americans now live in a jurisdiction where it’s legal to smoke weed.

Students heard from law enforcement, driving instructors and healthcare professionals about how driving distracted or impaired impacts everyone on the road.

In the United States, pedestrians are an integral part of the urban ecosystem, but they also face many dangers that pose significant threats to their safety.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car crashes are a leading cause of death for children under the age of 14.

Amid a recent surge in traffic deaths and dangerous driving behaviors, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) has updated the Policies and Priorities that guide the organization’s work to prevent traffic crashes, injuries and deaths on U.S. roads.

North American freight and passenger railroads, law enforcement agencies and first responders are marking Rail Safety Week, which runs today through Sept. 24.

It doesn't matter if you've been riding for decades or for a few weeks, safety should always be every rider's top priority.

In 2021, speeding killed 12,330 people. Experts say enforcement of speed limit laws is critical to discouraging drivers from speeding.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 dramatically changed many aspects of Americans’ daily lives, including travel behavior.

Preliminary estimates released by the National Safety Council indicate traffic deaths in the United States declined 3 percent through the first six months of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022.

The use of car seats to protect children on the road has been recommended by major pediatric organizations — and required by state laws — for decades.

One crash investigation spiraled into another on Sunday, when a van veered off of the road along Interstate 95 and hit a Virginia State Police trooper who was pulled over investigating another crash.

Virginia’s youth are speaking out about buckling up. Schools and youth groups across the Commonwealth launched a statewide campaign Monday to increase seat belt usage among teens and youth.

Every year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration partners with local communities to hold Child Passenger Safety Week, which runs this year from Sept. 17-23.

The Federal Highways Administration (FHWA) defines a “Clear Zone” as an unobstructed, traversable roadside area that allows a driver to stop safely or regain control of a vehicle that has left the roadway (1).

Ever wonder why driving can cause you to doze off so easily? Avoid driver fatigue by recognizing the signs and learn how to stay alert.

This historic funding will help reduce the frequency and severity of commercial motor vehicle crashes on our nation’s roadways and support truck drivers by expanding access to truck parking, investing in critical technology, improving safety in work zones, rural areas and high crash corridors, and more

Autumn is around the corner and the season brings with it specific weather-related driving hazards.

Crashes and other incidents can be costly in more ways than one for fleet managers, making safety a top priority in their operations.

Roanoke County Public Schools is teaming up with local and state agencies to hold a series of parent & student meetings about teen driving at each high school during the month of October, 2023.

Officials are finding ways of creating training that can help prevent and mitigate potential risks for police and law enforcement officers on patrol.

Historical data analyzed by Cambridge Mobile Telematics and CargoNet indicates that carriers should exhibit heightened safety awareness this holiday weekend as risks rise.

Residents in some states do better than others at adhering to the speed limit, according to a new analysis from Assurance.

To help ensure their own safety, fleet drivers should prepare both themselves and their vehicles before they take to the roadways.

New analysis from AAA, which examined five years of crash data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, points to the lack of proper child restraint use among children injured or killed in car crashes.

With a goal of increasing road safety, a Virginia Commonwealth University professor is working to develop a faster, more effective breathalyzer for THC, the component of cannabis most associated with its psychoactive effects.

Thirteen individuals died in 10 traffic crashes over the 2023 Labor Day holiday weekend in Virginia, according to preliminary reports. Half of the traffic crashes involved motorcycles, in which seven motorcycle operators and passengers lost their lives.

Stakeholders must work closely together to combat distracted driving as in-vehicle infotainment systems and other onboard electronics divert eyes away from the road, says an executive from a mobility and data analytics company.

The number of motor vehicle-related deaths dipped 3.4% in the first half of the year compared with the same period in 2022, according to the National Safety Council.

Governor Glenn Youngkin kicked off the campaign alongside law enforcement, medical professionals, and EMS responders who work tirelessly day and night to save lives from the dangers of drinking and driving.

Analysis by the National Safety Council shows 455 people may lose their life in a preventable traffic crash over this year's Labor Day holiday weekend, which kicks off Friday, Sept. 1 at 6 p.m. and extends through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 4.

More fatal crashes occur in summer than any other time of year, reports U.S.A. Today. Based on data from the United States Department of Transportation analysts found that in 2020 and 2021, more than 30% of all fatal crashes happened between June and August.

Arlington County police will conduct a high-visibility transportation safety campaign in and around school zones starting Monday, Aug. 28.

TikTokers are putting themselves in “music time-out” after nearly getting into car [crashes] while looking for music on their phones or dashboards — and the trend is highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.

With $8.9 million in state funding, the Department of Public Works plans to touch one in ten Richmond intersections.

A new study proposes public health officials and planners treat traffic violence as an epidemiological problem.

A cartoon character named Ivy was designed by a Roanoke City deputy, and now signs are going up around school areas and online.

Traffic fatalities declined by an estimated 3% during the first six months of 2023 while miles traveled by American motorists increased 2.3% across the same period of time, a new report found.

This week Virginia launched its 2023 Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over DUI campaign, which includes more police visibility and increased traffic enforcement now through the Labor Day holiday.

Here's a look at the invention of rumble strips, as well as the many different variations and names that the road safety features are known by.

Road traffic fatalities in the United States increased at the rate of 3 percent annually between 2011 and 2021.

Twelve people lost their lives in fatal traffic crashes in Virginia throughout 2022’s four-day Labor Day holiday weekend, according to Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles crash data.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a proposed rule which requires automobile manufacturers to equip vehicles with seat belt use warning systems for the right front passenger and rear seats to increase seat belt use.

New research describes transportation engineers as part of the public health workforce, and argues they should emphasize strategies that reduce risk for greater proportions of the population.

The parents of two James River High School students who died in a speed-related car crash on April 11 joined forces with the Chesterfield County Police Department to urge people to take driving seriously.

Brake Safety Week roadside inspectors conduct North American Standard Inspections, which cover a range of driver qualifications, documentation, and vehicle equipment conditions.

Transportation safety is a shared responsibility and it is up to all of us to keep our students safe by following the rules of the road.

Traffic deaths showed a 3% decrease for the first six months of this year compared to the same period for 2022, according to National Safety Council (NSC) estimates announced today.

The 2023-2024 school year is upon us, and parents all over the country are preparing to send their students back to school.

Speeding makes it more difficult to control a vehicle, extends the stopping distance and reduces the ability to steer safely around another vehicle, pedestrian or hazard in the roadway.

Reinforcing the message that texting and driving can have deadly consequences can motivate motorists to stay off their phones, thereby reducing traffic fatalities, according to new MU research.

According to police reports, around 3,350 people were killed in all distraction-related crashes in 2021, and 382 died in crashes involving cell phone use.

In 2022, full-size pickup trucks had the highest theft rate of all vehicles — comprising 25% of total vehicle thefts, according to a new analysis from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).

Fleet professionals offered their own perspectives in response to a recent Automotive Fleet article examining trends in fleet safety.

School bus safety is a priority as kids head back to the classroom. Local districts and their school resource officers said you can play a role in protecting our kids.

The enforcement effort will be supported by a $13.8 million paid media campaign using a mix of television, radio, digital, social media and billboards to educate drivers about the dangers of impaired driving.

“One of the deadliest and most often committed - yet preventable - of crimes (impaired driving), has become a serious safety epidemic in our country.”

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has unveiled a new and enhanced dmv.virginia.gov that helps customers easily find important information online, enabling them to expedite their visit or avoid a visit altogether.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety notes advancement in driver and front seat passenger seat safety over the years, yet rear seat research has been neglected.

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are the eyes and ears of your car. They use sensors and cameras to detect potential hazards, warn drivers, and can take corrective action automatically.

More fatal crashes occur in summer than any other time of year, reports U.S.A. Today. Based on data from the United States Department of Transportation analysts found that in 2020 and 2021, more than 30% of all fatal crashes happened between June and August.

Dubbed "360 Blitz," the goal is to reduce roadway fatalities involving pedestrians and vehicles.

The Virginia Department of Transportation offers tips to stay safe on major highways and interstates during poor weather.

In an effort to decrease unrestrained traffic injuries and fatalities, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles has launched its 2023 Local Heroes campaign, encouraging drivers and passengers to wear their seat belts.

Older adults in the U.S. don’t necessarily want to give up their car keys — even when they may be experiencing cognitive decline, a new study shows.

National Stop on Red Week, August 6-12, serves as an important reminder of the dangers we face on our roads and the responsibility we all hold to Stop on Red.

In July, dozens of Allies in Action gathered at USDOT’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. for a first-ever workshop to share progress, review case studies of notable practices, encourage new commitments, and make connections to meet common safety goals.

According to an analysis conducted by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), an organization dedicated to predicting, preventing, and prosecuting insurance crime, full-size pickups were the most targeted vehicles for theft in 2022.

As forecasts and conditions could change, travelers should pay close attention to local weather reports and announcements from officials and limit their travels based on conditions.

As she approaches her second year as administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Robin Hutcheson sees an opportunity to better understand the “root cause” of crashes.

A teenage cyclist was killed and another teenager was charged with murder after a carjacking and police pursuit in eastern Henrico County.

Do you drive your child to school? It’s vital for you to stay alert and avoid distracted driving, the National Safety Council says.

It seems obvious that texting and walking can be a dangerous duo, but now a new Australian study offers solid evidence of the dangers.

Getting a driver's license used to be a rite of passage for teens, now some are choosing to wait longer to hit the roads.

Deterring aggressive driving, reducing crashes, and changing driving behavior is the aim of the program launched in March.

Multitasking has a hidden cost for drivers that past analyses have not taken into account.

In a recent analysis by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, 16 SUV models ranked among a total of 23 vehicles across all categories with the lowest rates of driver deaths.

While fleet operators spend a lot of time on safety programs, it’s important to remind drivers of basic steps they can take to ensure their own safety behind the wheel.

Red light running happens frequently and is often deadly. In 2021, 1,109 people were killed in crashes that involved red light running, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

GM thinks it can teach its customers to use its hands-free Super Cruise system safely. But Tesla may be muddying the waters.

Rarely does a teen driver climb into the driver’s seat of a Class 8 tractor, but Virginia Tech Transportation Institute’s Sharing the Road with Trucks program puts them there.

While government statistics may not fully capture its extent, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research suggests that around 16% to 21% of fatal vehicle crashes involve drowsy driving.

Automatic emergency braking systems are becoming more common in trucking and are seen as a 'slam dunk for roadway safety.' They're gaining in popularity, but how do they work, and how are they maintained?

UC San Diego scientists evaluate how accurate law-enforcement administered field sobriety tests are at measuring cannabis exposure and impairment.

Christy King, mother of Christopher King, and founder of the Christopher King Foundation, was recognized during the annual Youth of Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety (YOVASO) Awards “for her courage in speaking out in order to help save young lives.” (YOVASO)

When you think of a fleet of vehicles, how many come to mind? Ten? A hundred?

Mike Lindgren designs roads for a living. For 30 years, he’s tried to help create highways, intersections and interchanges that move traffic safely.

States that have laws to govern when ignition interlock devices may be removed from drunk driving offenders’ vehicles have significantly lower rates of repeat driving under the influence (DUI) offenses than states which do not.

Whether it’s gesturing, shouting, threatening — or worse — anger behind the wheel is becoming far too common on America’s roadways. Aggressive behaviors, ranging from speeding to acts of violence, pose a threat not only to other drivers but to passengers and pedestrians as well.

There is a crisis unfolding on U.S. streets: pedestrian deaths are at a 40-year high, with over 7,000 pedestrians killed by by drivers each year.

Distraction has been causing crashes since people began driving. Our screen addiction has both added to the problem and drawn new attention to it.

It’s time to create AV benchmarking and enable widespread deployment and use of autonomous vehicles.

By encouraging safe driving habits, Project Yellow Light serves as a force for positive change, aiming to prevent tragedies and save lives.

Gesturing, shouting, threatening, or worse, has become far too common for drivers on roadways in Virginia and throughout the United States.

The daily commute – even in ideal conditions – can be stressful for drivers “for intriguing reasons,” says a team of Texas researchers.

The Youth of Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety organization (YOVASO) gave some driving advice during its summer retreat at James Madison University.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently launched a three-week “Speeding Wrecks Lives” speeding prevention campaign that runs from July 10 through July 31

From packing to preparing for exams, there are so many things to do while going to college to start this new chapter of life. However, along with these things, there is also one significant thing you should never forget: Driving safely.

On average, someone fell victim to a suspected road rage incident every 16 hours in 2022, according to data from Everytown Research and Policy data.

One of the most difficult conversations you may have with your aging parents involves whether they should continue to drive.

The new NHTSA findings indicate that speeders may have a tendency to be roadway rule-breakers in general — not just when they put the pedal to the medal.

The 10th Annual Distracted Driving Summit by Drive Smart Virginia is getting ready for their event in Blacksburg this September and recently announced one of their guest speakers.

A possibly record-breaking sentence for a Florida motorist is prompting a conversation about what the consequences might stop the national epidemic of distracted driving — and who should receive them.

Navigating multi-lane roads means dealing with more risks. When the lanes are many, so are the dangers.

The Albemarle County Police Department says it has seen a drop in fatal crashes this year. Despite this, officers are still seeing a lot of craziness on highways and byways.

The summer months are the busiest time on the roads and for teens with ADHD, a new driver’s license carries a lot of responsibility.

In the United States, some 7,508 people on foot were stuck and killed by motor vehicles in 2022 — a 1% increase over the 7,443 pedestrian deaths in 2021.

Is it me, or have you also noticed that since returning to the streets after the COVID-19 shutdown, drivers are driving more aggressively and are far less courteous?

Help your fleet drivers understand the factors that contribute to lane-changing crashes so they can take the necessary steps to avoid a collision while switching lanes.

Vehicle thefts spike during summertime, and that’s why police departments, transportation associations and organizations like Drive Smart Virginia are reminding people about car security during July’s Vehicle Theft Prevention Month.

Of those who died, one was a motorcyclist, two were drivers and two were passengers. The fatal crashes took place in Arlington, Buchanan, Charles City and Craig counties.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is partnering with advocates and experts from across the country to launch its “Speeding Wrecks Lives” speeding prevention campaign.

Here's what the research says about what makes traffic intersections unsafe and crosswalk designs that can improve pedestrian safety.

Drunk driving is one of the deadliest yet most preventable behaviors that accounts for nearly one-third of the nation’s traffic crash fatalities. Alcohol-impaired driving deaths have skyrocketed 31% in just two years, rising from 10,196 in 2019 to 13,384 in 2021.

A new study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety finds that raising posted speed limits may do little to save time and increase traffic flow but could lead to more crashes, injuries, and deaths.

Six of the 21 vehicles with the highest driver death rates for model year 2020 are variants of the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger and Ford Mustang, while eight others are small cars or minicars.

Virginia State Police took to Twitter to call out a driver they say was going more than 80 miles over the speed limit on Interstate 66.

For every driver who finds a legal and safe place to park, we need 11 more parking spaces every day.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 9,330 people died in traffic crashes in the first three months of 2023; a decrease of about 3.3 percent as compared to 9,645 estimated fatalities during the same time period in 2022.

Seat belts are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries and deaths in motor vehicle crashes.

Starting Saturday, July 1, many new laws will go into effect in the Commonwealth. One of those makes changes to the ‘Move Over’ law.

The roads will be crowded as millions of Americans are expected to travel over the long Independence Day holiday weekend.

Governor's association says an average of 20 pedestrians died each day.

Summer is a high traffic time for many teens as they spend more time on the road.

As electric vehicles become more common, concerns over their safety, not just for those who drive them but for others on the road as well, are also increasing.

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has announced July 9-15 for this year’s Operation Safe Driver Week.

The new proposal mandates that heavy vehicles must be equipped with automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems. Introducing such systems aims to lessen the occurrence and impact of rear-end crashes.

Heat stress can significantly impact drivers' performance and cognitive abilities, posing risks not only to their own safety but also to the safety of others on the road.

According to People for Bikes, a bicycling advocacy organization, 34 percent of Americans rode bikes in 2022 (PDF), which is more than in 2018 and 2016 (both 32 percent).

Technology is making it tougher to steal locked, unoccupied vehicles, so thieves often turn to carjacking or fake police stops to steal occupied vehicles.

Vehicle speed and size, alcohol use, time of day and lack of pedestrian infrastructure contribute to the ongoing increase in fatalities, traffic safety experts said.

Despite just over half of states seeing a decrease in pedestrian traffic deaths in 2022, the number of fatalities nationwide continues to creep up, a new report finds.

The government will require heavy trucks and buses to include automatic emergency braking equipment within five years, the federal traffic safety agency said Thursday, estimating it will prevent nearly 20,000 crashes and save at least 155 lives a year.

It’s often said that people are more likely to change their behavior when they know they’re being watched. Now D.C. wants to see if that’s actually true with dangerous drivers.

The Virginia DMV said last year 1,005 people died on Virginia roadways.

TRIP’s report said the number of U.S. traffic fatalities increased 19 percent from 2019 to 2022 – from 36,096 to 42,795 – and the nation’s fatality rate per 100 million VMT increased 22 percent during that time, from 1.11 to 1.35.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has shared new data indicating traffic fatalities dropped 3.3% during Q1 2023, representing the fourth consecutive quarterly decline.

Around 619 people may be killed in roadway crashes during the Fourth of July weekend, according to estimates from the National Safety Council.

Road safety advocates gathered off Pocahontas Parkway in Henrico County on Tuesday to draw attention to a new law that takes effect July 1 impacting all drivers in Virginia.

As of June 12 this year, there have been more than 160 bicycle-involved crashes on Virginia roadways, resulting in nine fatalities and serious injuries for at least 40 others, according to data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

Starting this Saturday, July 1, drivers need to slow down and move over, if possible, for stationary vehicles on Virginia’s roadside that are displaying hazard lights, warning signs, or flares.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) warns that deaths from drunk driving-related crashes can surge 39% over the July 4th weekend, which could mean one life lost every 24 minutes, based on the latest data available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

With millions of Americans planning to travel for the long Independence Day weekend, the American Trucking Associations’ Share the Road drivers are encouraging motorists to be safe on the nation’s highways.

According to the latest study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), distracted driving killed at least 3,000 people in 2020. This is undoubtedly a low ball number. The IIHS cautions that distracted driving is almost surely far more likely the cause of [crashes] than can be clearly quantified “due to the difficulties of proving distraction at the scene of a crash.”

A new study revealed that fleet managers face ongoing challenges in keeping pace with regulatory updates and enhancing driver expertise. "The State of Fleet Management: Insights on Priorities for Today's Fleet Managers," commissioned by the J. J. Keller Center for Market Insights, the research division of J. J. Keller & Associates, draws on a survey conducted in February 2023.

Memorial Day to Labor Day is designated as the "100 Deadliest Days" of the summer according to AAA Tidewater. New teen drivers on the road are often involved in these deadly summer crashes. AAA has tips for keeping teens safe during these dangerous months and year-round.

You'll soon be able to chat with your car thanks to generative AI, but experts warn that the technology could also lead to distracted driving. Mercedes-Benz has announced plans to add ChatGPT to its cars. The software would make voice commands more fluid and could also engage in conversations. However, some say the concept could lead to problems.

A long-anticipated advance notice of proposed rulemaking aimed at removing unsafe motor carriers is expected to be published this summer. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Spring 2023 Unified Regulatory Agenda, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration projects to publish in June a notice asking for public comment about the agency’s safety fitness procedures.

More than 9,300 people died in traffic crashes during the first three months of 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s early estimate of motor vehicle traffic fatalities. Released Wednesday, the estimate is 3.3% less compared with a year earlier and represents a fourth straight quarterly decline following almost two years of increases that began during the COVID pandemic.

GHSA's annual Spotlight report, Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State: 2022 Preliminary Data, offers a comprehensive look at state and national trends in pedestrian deaths in 2022. The report projects that drivers struck and killed at least 7,508 people walking in 2022 – the highest number since 1981 and an average of 20 deaths every day.

When it comes to road safety, the focus is often on the behavior of drivers behind the wheel. However, fleet operators understand that preventive maintenance is crucial in ensuring safe operations.

A semi truck crashed on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and went over the side and into the water on Thursday, officials said. The crash happened around 2 p.m. in the northbound lanes between Virginia Beach and the southernmost island, bridge spokesman Thomas Anderson told news outlets.

The government will require heavy trucks and buses to include automatic emergency braking equipment within five years, the federal traffic safety agency said Thursday, estimating it will prevent nearly 20,000 crashes and save at least 155 lives a year. The announcement by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration follows a similar move last month for all new passenger cars and light trucks.

Global information technology firm NEC Corporation of America and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute recently unveiled a new private 5G- and artificial intelligence or AI-based roadway warning system that can identify dangerous traffic conditions and hazards, such as the approach of pedestrians or animals, and provide warnings to motorists.

Motor vehicle crashes are the most common cause of death among teens. To counter this, Honda created a new app that will help make better drivers.

Although initial data suggests that marijuana legalization has “negatively impacted highway safety,” it’s still “too soon to calculate” an overall relationship between the two, according to a new report.

Nine professional Virginia truck drivers were crowned “Champions of the Highway” at the 70th Virginia Truck Driving Championships held June 2 and 3 at Richard Bland College in Petersburg, Virginia.

Use of temporary, portable rumble strips is more effective than warning signs at reducing distracted driving in work zones, according to a recent National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine report report.

Distracted driving is of most concern in summer, when it typically reaches its peak as more younger drivers take to the road, and more people in general take the opportunity to travel, explore, or visit family.

While enforcing road safety is a year-round effort, law enforcement officers across North America will be out in full force next month emphasizing the importance of safe driving practices during the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Operation Safe Driver Week from July 9 to 15.

Virginia State Police is sending out a warning after 18 interstate shootings left six people hurt since the beginning of the year.

The city launched the ‘Change Lanes to Pass’ campaign for the 4th year in a row to create safer road conditions for both cyclists and drivers.

Traffic violence is a preventable public health crisis, experts said during a road safety webinar. Federal funding will help, but cities also must cultivate a “culture of safety,” one mayor said.

Road rage and aggression often lead to deadly consequences on our roads and highways.

Nationwide, white males between the ages of 21 and 25 are the demographic most likely to get into a deadly car crash with 3,036 collisions in 2021, according to a new study from Neufeld Law firm.

Lacking adequate resources, states are often unable to provide complete criminal histories to the FBI’s databases, which are critical resources for reducing impaired driving by repeat offenders, according to a new GAO report.

Distracted driving is on the rise, and it is killing people and costing society billions of dollars.

Researchers at the University of Alabama Birmingham recently unveiled a new smartphone-based application called “StreetBit” that uses Bluetooth beacon technology to prevent pedestrians from becoming distracted while navigating road crossings.

New data indicates that safety technology including dash cams are helping both automotive and truck fleets to reduce risky driver behaviors and crashes.

NHTSA estimates that pedestrian traffic deaths climbed to 7,400 in 2021. The government agency’s new proposed rule addresses this crisis.

The report provides a foundational model for purposeful, proactive engagement to help reach more community stakeholders and builds trust in the community

The state is seeing an 80% increase in bicyclist-related deaths, according to the DMV, which has reported 160 bicyclist-involved crashes so far this year.

Heading into the summer months, the 100 deadliest days for teens is now underway.

The lack of seat belt use among truck drivers is grabbing the attention of federal regulators concerned about the latest fatality data.

The Christopher King Foundation will hold its third annual “Cars for Chris” car show on Saturday, June 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Williamsburg-Jamestown Airport.

Car seats and boosters provide protection for infants and children in a crash, yet car crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13.

A Roanoke Circuit Court judge has granted a $1.5 million settlement to the estate of a cyclist who was killed by a distracted driver last year in Botetourt County.

As traffic deaths surge, contractors are calling on states to do more.

Memorial Day, the unofficial beginning of the summer season, also marks the start of a dangerous time on the roads for teenagers and young people.

As the Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Virginia State Police (VSP) are urging all drivers to take necessary precautions and plan ahead for their holiday travels.

Of all the bad driving habits, speeding is likely the worst. Some 25% of all fatal crashes are linked to speeding.

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials recently hosted a knowledge session, sponsored by HDR, at its 2023 Spring Meeting in Seattle that detailed the vital role state departments of transportation can play in achieving zero roadway fatalities across the United States.

A stroll through international statistics about walking reveals the grim reality of foot travel in the United States.

Even as far back as 2005, the Virginia Department of Transportation pointed out issues of driving on I-81 in our region

In recognition of National Bicycle Safety Month, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is reminding Virginians to look out for each other on the road.

Memorial Day kicks off summer fun, but it also starts the 100 deadliest days of the year for teenage drivers in the District, Virginia and other states, AAA Mid-Atlantic said.

First responders and roadway workers have been working to prevent roadway close calls and struck-by incidents for years. The phenomenon is not new, but it seems to be getting worse by the day.

As teenagers get older and reach the legal driving age, it becomes crucial for parents to have open and effective conversations about safe practices on the roads.

Law enforcement officers in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will be on the lookout for commercial motor vehicle drivers and passenger vehicle drivers engaging in unsafe driving behaviors during the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s Operation Safe Driver Week, July 9 to 15.

The proposal could save at least 360 lives a year and reduce injuries by at least 24,000 people annually, NHTSA said in a news release.

The 2023 Memorial Day weekend proved deadly for nine drivers and passengers, including four motorcyclists, VSP said.

Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are among the safety technologies increasingly installed in vehicle across the model lineups.

Fleet drivers may underestimate how drowsy they are on the job, especially when behind the wheel at night.

Automotive manufacturers are increasingly developing vehicles with integrated infotainment systems, which can be a major form of distraction for drivers.

Some 47% of consumers classify themselves as a “multitasking driver” because they typically do something else simultaneously while behind the wheel, according to a recent survey from Netradyne.

The scheme put forward by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration comes as pedestrian deaths are surging nationwide.

DMV and AAA Mid-Atlantic joins Virginia’s first responders, local law enforcement and Virginia State Police to focus on saving lives through increased seat belt use by participating in the national Click It or Ticket campaign through June 4, 2023.

In spite of widespread awareness campaigns, incentivized insurance policies, and technological solutions, the incidence of auto accidents and fatalities from distracted driving continues to spiral.

A national survey commissioned by Erie Insurance shows that passengers can dramatically help reduce texting while driving by asking the driver to stop.

In Central Virginia, multiple pedestrian fatalities – including the death of a Virginia Commonwealth University student killed after a vehicle drove onto a sidewalk where he was walking a few weeks ago – have renewed efforts to reduce traffic crashes.

In an era where we rely heavily on our smartphones for almost everything, it comes as no surprise that these devices can also assist us in creating safer driving habits.

More than 1,000 people died in traffic crashes in Virginia in 2022.

The Memorial Day weekend kicks off what is often referred to by traffic safety experts as "the 100 deadliest days." The period from Memorial Day through Labor Day usually sees a dangerous spike in teen traffic fatalities...

The National Safety Council is urging all drivers to be extra cautious this Memorial Day weekend, estimating that 469 people may die on our roads over the holiday period.

This May, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds all motorists that Motorcyclist Safety Is Everyone’s Safety.

Hampton Roads led all metropolitan areas in Virginia for vehicle crashes in 2022, outstripping Richmond and Northern Virginia during a period of increasing fatal crashes statewide.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is kicking off its annual Click It or Ticket campaign to encourage drivers and passengers to buckle up, reminding everyone that seat belts save lives.

Semi-automated cars are becoming increasingly common, but real dangers exist when technology fails and drivers don’t intervene.

Rain is a common occurrence in most places across the country and around the world, but that doesn’t mean that driving in the rain isn’t without risk.

AAA projects 42.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this Memorial Day weekend*, a 7% increase over 2022. This year, 2.7 million more people will travel for the unofficial start of summer compared to last year, a sign of what’s to come in the months ahead.

A stroll through international statistics about walking reveals the grim reality of foot travel in the United States.

As the Memorial Day holiday approaches, the Arlington County Police Department is again partnering with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to remind motorists about the importance of seat belt use.

While drivers may make the dangerous decision to text behind the wheel, passengers have the power to help end this behavior.

Chesterfield first responders set up this crash demonstration to stress the dangers of drinking and driving to students.

The nicest time of year is also the most dangerous for motorcyclists. Warmer weather means more riders and more crashes, too.

Road traffic has seen an increase post-pandemic due to a return to office life and social obligations, which has resulted in a rise in distracted driving, collisions and fatalities.

Students at Indian River High School used a virtual reality simulator to experience road scenarios and how distractions present dangers to drivers.

When it's time to teach your teenager to drive, parents should begin by taking the time to see that their teen is knowledgeable about and comfortable with the vehicle and its controls.

Distracted driving has become a growing car safety issue, with fatalities rising because of risky behaviors like using smartphones while behind the wheel.

The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) remind all motorists that Motorcycle Safety is Everyone’s Safety.

Airman Makai Cummings appeared to be changing his tire on the side of I-295 near the Meadowbridge exit when another vehicle hit and killed him.

NHTSA is urging communities to create safe spaces for bicyclists, and for drivers to be on the lookout for people bicycling nearby.

Over the last five years, more than half of fatal crashes in urban areas occurred on roads managed by states, leaving local leaders with little authority to make safety changes.

Although reasons for the disparities are not clear, speakers at a traffic safety symposium say a safe systems approach with community engagement could help.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) this week is running its first-ever Our Roads, Our Safety Week, a safety-observance event dedicated to educating all road users on sharing the road safely with large trucks and buses.

Virginia Beach teenagers are getting a life lesson on the dangers of distracted driving.

The Department of Motor Vehicles says between 2018 and 2022 there were 30 fatal traffic crashes involving a motorcycle between Augusta, Rockingham, Shenandoah and Page counties.

“It's the final day of #DistractedDrivingAwarenessMonth!” the Governors Highway Safety Association posted on its website and Twitter earlier today.

A Family Safety Day was held in Onley with displays and demonstrations showing safety at home, on the road, and on the water.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released new estimates for U.S. roadway fatalities during the 2022 calendar year.

Older drivers using alcohol or drugs are much more likely to be at fault in a car crash.

Drug and alcohol abuse can leave workers and commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers impaired. As more states have decriminalized cannabis, its growing acceptance has become a special challenge for those employing workers in safety-sensitive positions.

Every month, two emergency responders, tow workers or road maintenance workers are struck and killed at the side of the road by a driver who fails to obey the law by moving over to an adjacent lane.

Even the most seasoned commercial drivers can benefit from helpful reminders about road safety. One area that merits continued focus concerns ways to handle tricky traffic situations.

The mother of the bride had just unwound with a change of clothes and a glass of wine on her short-term rental's balcony when the sound of sirens gave the first impression that her daughter's wedding night had gone awry.

Fairfax County Police released video of a crash that injured a police officer and a driver during a traffic stop on Monday.

Fairfax County Police Department chief Kevin Davis told 7News Wednesday that officers believe a 17 year old driver was going 129 mph Monday before losing control and crashing into where an officer was doing a traffic stop.

The states with the highest rates of distracted driving per mile aren’t always the states that report the most distraction-related crashes, or the ones with the most lax distraction laws, a new report finds

Now that traffic volume is returning to pre-pandemic levels, texting, scrolling on social media, or answering emails while driving are becoming widespread — with dangerous consequences.

Dogs may be man’s best friend, but they might not be his safest driving companion.

May is National Youth Traffic Safety Month and the National Road Safety Foundation reminds parents that they play a crucial role in encouraging their teens to drive safely.

Like most people, Roger Bligh appreciates the natural beauty of trees. But Bligh, an award-winning roadside safety research engineer, also sees trees as safety hazards.

Today, David Reich, Dir. of PR for National Road Safety Foundation, sat down with us to share his insight on the topic.

Driving after having less than five hours of sleep may be as dangerous as under the influence of alcohol, a study suggests.

Drivers of utility vans, tow trucks, and other light and medium-weight trucks could use safety training, according to a team from the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center.

Do you have an effective vehicle fleet safety management program?

A new report shows a big spike in cellphone-related distracted driving since 2019.

May 4, 2021, was supposed to be a normal Tuesday. Instead, I call it my “Alive Day.”

Flooding can happen anywhere in the country, and it’s a year-round hazard that happens in all 50 states.

If you drive, you will probably see many unsafe driver behaviors. The longer you drive, the more of them you’ll see.

The U.S. Department of Transportation today announced over 30 new commitments from organizations that are supporting the Department’s National Roadway Safety Strategy and taking action to reverse the crisis that is killing more than 40,000 people on American roads each year.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released its latest projections for traffic fatalities in 2022, estimating that 42,795 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes.

Making roads safer often involves doing a lot of little things. There’s no single reason crashes occur and no single way to protect people from death and injury.

Recent advances in roadway mobility have changed the way we travel, whether we’re heading to work, running daily errands or visiting loved ones.

Data shows that laws to prevent distracted driving have a near-immediate impact, but that the effect wears off quickly.

The NDDC was created by the NTSB to research and take action to reduce distracted driving, a growing problem brought to the public's attention during April, designated as National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is working with the trucking industry and other stakeholders as it revisits a proposal to mandate installation of side underride guards on heavy truck trailers.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and statistics show that distracted driving has become an increasingly common and fatal hazard.

For the past few previous decades, on average approximately 350 people were killed each year nationwide in wrong-way freeway crashes, according to one analysis based on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Fatal Accident Reporting System.

When you think of driving dangers, you probably think about risky behaviors like speeding and distraction, or hazardous situations like foul weather.

When you tailgate, you reduce the time and space available to you in the event of an emergency or unexpected event.

While automakers have been working to improve the reliability and performance of automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems, issues with these systems can still occur.

In 1997, a few staff members of the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Bristol district decided to spend a week in April raising awareness about work zone safety before construction season kicked into high gear.

As the summer construction season begins and those orange barrels and flashing arrows pop up along the highways, safety experts are putting out the annual reminder to motorists to slow down and stay alert in work zones.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and truck drivers face a sobering statistic: they are 23 times more likely to cause a [crash] when texting at the wheel, despite the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration prohibiting cell phone use when driving.

Federal, state and local lawmakers are increasingly concerned about roadway deaths and injuries, especially fatalities among pedestrians and cyclists, which increased by 13% and 1.9% from 2020 to 2021, according to the report.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will hold a vigil on Wednesday, April 19 in honor of all Virginia transportation workers who have been killed on Virginia roadways.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has released its latest projections for traffic fatalities in 2022, estimating that 42,795 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes.

On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) said it was committed to improving safety for road construction workers as part of this year’s National Work Zone Awareness Week (April 17-21).

Ad Council, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and SXM Media today announced the launch of an audio PSA to raise awareness of the dangers of driving while high.

Distracted driving is one of the fastest-growing safety issues on roads across Virginia.

The 2023 theme is “Work with Us,” a reminder that highway workers and motorists all play a key role in work zone safety.

People living in the United States are constantly on the move while simultaneously staying connected to the digital world via smartphones.

As more drivers took to the road following the outbreak of COVID-19, the nation chalked up a significant increase in the number of crashes to distracted driving in 2021.

In the first three months of 2023, Richmond has seen nine people walking killed and more than 160 others injured, according to the city's VisionZero dashboard.

On Tuesday, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found that driver fatigue led to a deadly multivehicle crash in Phoenix in June 2021 that killed four and injured 11 after a tractor-trailer carrying milk rammed into stopped traffic of passenger vehicles.

Seeing aggressive driving, sometimes called road rage, has become familiar while on the road, especially if you have a long commute or get stuck in traffic.

American roads are deadlier than they were before the pandemic and many are looking at changes in police traffic enforcement as a cause.

We all see it every day. Drivers taking their eyes off the road. In fact, new research from Nationwide shows dangerous driving behavior has not improved since last year. In fact, it has reached alarming highs.

The Virginia Senate and House of Delegates has overwhelmingly passed SB982/HB1932 and Governor Glenn Youngkin has signed into law an important expansion of the state’s Move Over law that will help save lives.

Traffic safety campaigns promoted by DRIVE SMART Virginia have had a quantifiable impact on roadway users since the nonprofit’s founding in 1995, resulting in fewer fatalities.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is holding its annual “U Drive, U Text, U Pay” distracted driving prevention campaign April 3 through 10.

What if you could be fined or lose your license for driving tired?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is kicking off its annual U Drive. U Text. U Pay. campaign, raising awareness of the dangers of driving while distracted.

Texting and driving can be deadly. Holding your phone in your hand to talk and surfing the internet while behind the wheel is dangerous, too.

A new study compiled by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicated that a “multifaceted approach” that leverages enforcement efforts alongside public outreach efforts could buttress efforts to end distracted driving.

One of the first ways teens practice responsibility and independence is by earning their driver’s license and getting behind the wheel.

Don’t read this, or anything besides road signs, while driving! April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

SUVs cause more severe injuries than cars when they hit bicyclists likely because the vehicles’ tall front ends strike the bicyclists higher on their bodies, a new study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows.

In the digital age, an increased desire for constant online connection has created safety hazards for drivers on the road.

National Work Zone Awareness Week will kick off with an April 18 event hosted by the Missouri Department of Transportation.

Consumers fear drivers are faster, more aggressive, and more reckless compared to 2022. They are right. New research from Nationwide (PDF) shows dangerous driving behavior has not improved since last year. In fact, it has reached alarming highs.

On a daily basis, teens are surrounded by distractions, many of which stem from their cellphones – including social media, texts and emails. Behind the wheel, those distractions can be hazardous for anyone, but especially for young people just learning to drive.

The deaths come as federal officials and the highway construction industry mount a push to protect workers during a boom in projects funded by the infrastructure law.

Adding EVs makes fleets more sustainable by reducing emissions and saving on fuel and maintenance costs. But there’s more to it than simply swapping EVs for traditional vehicles.

As the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) prepares to spend hundreds of billions on the nation’s roads in the coming years, we’re urging officials to put the safety of older drivers and pedestrians at the forefront.

President Joe Biden’s big infrastructure bill could radically diminish one of America’s most common forms of death. But there are costs.

The National Road Safety Foundation says education and intervention can help limit distracted driving.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made a noticeable impact on traffic volume during the past few years.

Washington D.C. has struggled to bring down road fatalities because its Vision Zero program is hampered by limited infrastructure improvements, low funding and inconsistent oversight, part one of a new report reveals.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s annual campaign encourages drivers to put down their phones, pay attention and take responsibility for the daily choices they make on the road.

Distracted driving kills an average of nearly nine people every day in the United States in completely preventable crashes; NSC urges all to #JustDrive

The Virginia Senate and House of Delegates has overwhelmingly passed SB982/HB1932 and Governor Glenn Youngkin has signed into law an important expansion of the state’s Move Over law that will help save lives.

Industry groups say they’ve been unsuccessfully pushing for worker safety provisions for years.

We’re used to switching lanes when we see law enforcement or emergency vehicles on the side of the highway, but a new law expands that rule.

VTTI received a $1.2 million grant from the National Institute of Justice to study how changing police lights affects drivers’ reactions.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month – the perfect time to review some safe driving tips from the National Safety Council.

If you’re a frequent driver, you’ve probably seen someone at a red light or on the freeway with headphones on. The experience probably stuck out to you because that seems like a dangerous thing to do. It can’t possibly be legal, right?

The annual National Work Zone Awareness Week campaign is held every spring to coincide with the start of construction season to encourage safe driving through highway work zones.

Currently, almost every state in the U.S. has the same legal blood alcohol limit of .08 for drivers. The one exception is Utah, which has a lower limit of .05. But it may not stay that way for long.

More signs preventing right turns at red lights are going up around Arlington County to reduce crashes.

Farmers are busy planting their crops, and that means motorists will likely encounter slow-moving farm equipment on roadways.

Existing and emerging technologies have great potential to reduce distracted driving, which contributes to thousands of deaths each year in the United States, according to a new National Distracted Driving Coalition (NDDC) report.

Researchers at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently voiced concern about the safety implications linked to the weight of new electric vehicles (EVs).

Trends in increased home deliveries and initiatives like the American Jobs Plan could result in more active work zones on the roads, at airports, and on rails than in the recent past.

For Tammy Guido and David Messick, the first annual Keeper’s Cup Memorial Soccer Tournament means much more than trophies, medals and titles. This event is what keeps the legacies of their sons alive.

The Fairfax County Police Department and Virginia State Police troopers will utilize "high-visibility enforcement operations" targeting areas with high crash rates.

From implementing stricter speed limits to providing better road infrastructure, there are many steps that can be taken to help improve road safety.

It's a fear for many families with students that can drive: their child not making it home safely, due to drunk or distracted driving.

Roadway deaths in the United States continued to hover just above 46,000 in 2022, according to recently released preliminary fatality estimates from the National Safety Council (NSC).

The official number of deaths each year linked to drowsy driving is in the hundreds, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration records show, but they may be underreported.

Highway fatalities are on the rise again — 46,000 in the U.S. in 2022, up 22%, according to numbers released last week. How many of those deaths involved distracted driving?

More than one-third of St. Patrick's Day crash fatalities involved drunk drivers.

Two sisters were killed in a car crash in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, on Saturday.
Dawn Donnelly, 16, and Alexyss Scott, 18, were both students at Riverbend High School.

US roadways are carrying heavier, more powerful vehicles operated by motorists who are older, driving faster and more often distracted, according to CCC Intelligent Solutions’ annual Crash Course report.

While the thumbs-up emoji was recently placed on the chopping block by younger members of the workforce for its “rude” and “hostile” undertones, Gen Z and young millennials are going all in on its polar opposite.

With St. Patrick’s Day and the start of the NCAA basketball tournament aligning this week, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) said they are urging individuals to plan ahead and celebrate responsibly.

AARP launched a free smartphone app that empowers drivers to stay safe behind the wheel by analyzing five key driving behaviors linked to increasing safety and preventing crashes.

The National Road Safety Foundation (NRSF) and The National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) are looking for school resource officers (SROs) who are using innovative methods to teach students about safe driving behavior.

During our lives, there are things that we become passionate about and, as a result, we dedicate a great deal of time and effort in order to become better, more efficient, and skilled at particular tasks.

Can adolescents and young adults with neurodevelopmental differences learn to drive safely? Yes, and the number of adolescents and young adults driving with neurodevelopmental differences is growing.

According to Youth of Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety (YOVASO), more teen drivers in Virginia will be involved in traffic crashes between the months of May and August than at any other time of the year, statistics show.

In the last few years, the roads have become less safe primarily due to the rise in aggressive driving and distractions behind the wheel, said Tony Douglas, president and CEO of Smith System, a provider of crash-avoidance driver safety training.

For nearly five decades, drivers in much of the United States have taken for granted a privilege unknown in much of the rest of the world: Arrive at a red light, stop, and if the intersection is clear, turn right even if the signal isn't green.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nine people in the U.S. are killed every day in crashes that are reported to involve a distracted driver. That’s roughly 3,000 people every year.

Blindspots the size of a pre-school classroom. Hulking curb weights. Tall, aggressive hoods that can easily strike a fully grown adult at the level of the neck.

The driver walked away with $125 fine after an 86-year-old grandfather died in a crash.

The National Safety Council is urging all drivers to do a quick online check to see if their vehicle has any open safety recalls.

For a second consecutive year, preliminary estimates from the National Safety Council indicate the United States is in a dark place. Once again – in a single year's time – more than 46,000 people lost their lives in a preventable traffic crash

We live in a time of extremes that impact nearly every aspect of our lives. Even driving has become a hotly debated topic.

Although Irish in its roots, St. Patrick’s Day is known to be widely celebrated in the United States.

Daylight savings time, which begins this weekend, brings an increased risk of drowsy driving, recognized by traffic safety experts as a significant factor in crashes nationwide.

With St. Patrick’s day festivities just around the corner and the color green about to take over the streets of Downtown Roanoke, State Police reminds the community to stay safe on the roadways.

Some of the world’s most sophisticated vehicle makers and technologists are investing heavily in autonomous trucking and here is why.

Using a self-driving truck to follow a manned vehicle during “moving work zone” operations could help prevent roadway worker injuries, results of a recent study show.

AAA says on average, two emergency responders are killed after being struck each month by a driver on a roadway who is not obeying the law.

The number of people killed on U.S. streets in early 2022 was 5% higher than the same period a year earlier, showing a dramatic increase over the last decade.

Harrisonburg Public Works (HPW) is working on improving road safety and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure around the community through roadway reconfiguration projects, according to a press release.

Although alcohol is a factor in nearly 1 out of 3 traffic deaths, federal and state agencies need to also address driver impairment from cannabis and prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Due to tougher criteria from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), currently just 48 vehicle models qualify for 2023 Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ awards, compared to 101 vehicles this time last year.

Springtime means the beginning of road trip season! Traveling by vehicle can be a fun way to experience several different places on your way to your ultimate destination, but it comes with its own costs, complications, and risks too.

Driving is an essential skill, but it’s easy to take the safety of being on the road for granted. However, visibility – both yourself and your vehicle – plays a major role in ensuring that you drive safely.

Drivers in the United States struck and killed 3,434 people in the first half of 2022 – up 5%, or 168 more deaths, from the same period the year before, according to a new analysis from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).

Key Federal Highway Administration, Federal Railroad Administration, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and Federal Transit Administration officials shared their perspectives on ways to improve transportation safety during a panel discussion at the 2023 American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Washington Briefing

All I remember are the headlights coming toward me and having no time to react.

The state of Virginia could soon enact a move over rule revision.

For 34 years, Drive Safe Hampton Roads has joined forces with community partners to collect old, used and potentially unsafe child safety seats during the Child Safety Seat Round-Up program.

Fairfax County police are putting new measures in place to cut back on distracted driving and avoid crashes involving pedestrians.

Using a seat belt properly can reduce the risk of a fatal injury from a car accident by as much as 60%, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Two field studies conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety examined the effectiveness of certain “countermeasures” that aim to reduce highway work zone crashes – especially vehicle-mounted electronic variable message signs or VMSs.

There is little in this world that can prepare a parent for the loss of their own child. Tammy Duffy knows that pain all too well.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), teens are notorious risk-takers and may not consider the consequences of taking risks.

Drivers traveling through Virginia Commonwealth University’s campuses in Richmond may have noticed a recent increase in traffic and parking violations issued by VCU Police.

Experts say we need an array of tools — education, training, legislation, and technology — to combat the nation’s distracted driving crisis and this hold true for fleets as well as consumers.

Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road today. But what exactly is distracted driving and how does it impact your risks behind the wheel?

Dangerous driving is becoming more common in Richmond, sometimes ending in tragedy. That’s why the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Police Department wants to crack down on these types of behaviors.

The most recent figures show a slight drop in deadly crashes on U.S. roads during the first nine months of 2022. But the picture really isn’t even close to rosy.

Imagine you’re driving down the road and suddenly smell smoke or see flames shoot from under the hood or dash. What should you do?

Richmond reports 44 people died while traveling on Richmond’s streets from 2019 to 2021, and now, the City has been awarded a grant of $762,400 to fund road safety improvements throughout Richmond.

While winter weather leads many to prepare for driving in the snow and slush (and such preparation is important), government analysis of weather-related crashes and injuries points out that it’s driving on wet roads – not snowy or icy pavement – that leads to the highest percentage of crashes and injuries.

The immense weight of the electric Hummer prompted a crash test expert to stage a bizarre experiment—and wonder if EVs will make roads more dangerous.

Many solutions to slow down traffic elongate travel times. However, several compromise solutions exist that allow travelers to reach their destination quickly and improve road safety.

Transportation planners looking to address road safety issues and traffic fatalities could move beyond traditional methods of determining unsafe areas and rely more on technology, including the data collected by connected vehicles, according to one expert.

Police in Fairfax County, Virginia, are ramping up traffic enforcement during distracted-driving month, partnering with schools to educate the most distracted drivers — teenagers.

Missy Cummings, who spent more than a year at the federal auto safety agency, said that drivers were putting too much trust in systems like Tesla’s Autopilot and that regulators needed to restrict their use.

An autonomous truck is a semi-truck that can deliver goods across the country without needing a driver. Like autonomous cars, these trucks are currently in development at several self-driving-technology companies – and they’re on the horizon with some truly amazing capabilities.

While the frigid temperatures and gray skies of winter might seem endless, springtime is just around the corner. And with warmer, sunny days on the horizon, the time is fast approaching for fleet managers to prepare their vehicles for the change in season.

To help keep drivers in the know about ever-evolving vehicle safety technologies and how to use them, the National Safety Council has added resources to its MyCarDoesWhat.org website.

The Department of Transportation over the past year has undertaken a variety of actions related to guidance and rulemakings that officials say will lay the groundwork for reducing the number of fatal crashes on U.S. roadways.

The Transportation Department has enlisted dozens of organizations that have committed to taking action to make the roads less dangerous.

Nearly 50 businesses and nonprofits — including rideshare companies Uber and Lyft, industrial giant 3M and automaker Honda — are pledging millions of dollars in initiatives to stem a crisis in road fatalities under a new federal effort announced Friday.

A pedestrian has been struck by a vehicle at Virginia Commonwealth University for the second time in a week. Police responded to the scene at the intersection of West Grace and Harrison streets just before 9:15 p.m. Thursday.

The Traffic Injury Research Foundation USA, Inc. (TIRF USA), in partnership with TIRF in Canada and with sponsorship from the Anheuser-Busch Foundation, released the eighth annual Road Safety Monitor (RSM) on alcohol-impaired driving.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is proud to announce our new, National President, Tess Rowland, effective Feb. 6, 2023.

Henrico is one of 18 communities in Virginia to earn a share of the $7 million allocated through the competitive grant program to the state. In total, the program (for which localities had to apply and be selected) allocated $800 million to communities nationwide.

In his January 20, 2023 speech to the annual U.S. Conference of Mayors in Washington, DC, Secretary Pete (formerly Mayor Pete) brought a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing today’s municipal leaders.

At DoorDash, safety is always a top priority. The overwhelming majority of deliveries on our platform – more than 99.99% – are completed without any safety-related incident at all and the rate of motor vehicle fatalities involving Dashers is significantly less than the national average.

As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, the Virginia State Police are partnering with the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) to remind all Virginians to choose a designated driver if they plan to drink on the big day.

Police are using enforcement, outreach and education to raise awareness and encourage safe travel on VCU’s campuses.

This January, the insurer is reminding parents that setting a good example can make a difference.

The Transportation Research Board is hosting a webinar on February 9 that examines practices and trends state departments of transportation are deploying to improve highway worker safety.

A 22-year-old Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) student was killed crossing a street on the school's main campus Friday morning, according to university officials.

Whether it's your first year driving in snow or your 20th, there are always new tricks to learn.

A family is reminding the public about the dangers of drinking and driving at the two-year anniversary of their daughter Jordan Barksdale’s death at the hands of a drunk driver.

Since the pandemic shutdown, collisions and fatalities have risen to historic levels, driven by spikes in impaired and aggressive driving, as well as electronics distraction.

A new safety research report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found that between 71% and 99% of drivers in five populations studied tested positive for one or more potentially impairing drugs.

In 2020 alone, some 11,258 people lost their lives on our nation’s roadways due to speeding, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A new training module from the Emergency Responder Safety Institute focuses on the use of personal protective equipment when responding to roadway incidents.

The Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant Program aims to improve roads and address traffic fatalities.

Passengers can make a difference in reducing the number of devastating traffic crashes by speaking up when in a vehicle being driven unsafely. That's the theme of National Passenger Safety Week, January 22-29, 2023.

A new report issued by the National Transportation Safety Board calls on federal and state agencies engage in “new actions” to address the continuing problem of impaired driving, including from alcohol, cannabis (seen above), and other drugs, as well as well as multiple drug use.

Rick Birt, President of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) shared important information relating to safe driving on Good Morning Delmarva. SADD has partnered with MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Drivers) for National Passenger Safety Week.

Transportation projects often get delayed because of unclear structures and procedures within city agencies. A new report examines how the right mix of structure, people and processes can achieve success.

Cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles are used in all kinds of industries to conduct business. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 1,982 fatal occupational injuries were due to transportation incidents in 2021.

Sunday kicked off National Passenger Safety Week, an initiative started in 2022 by The National Road Safety Foundation alongside “We Save Lives,” an organization that advocates for safe driving.

One of the most important jobs you have as a parent is keeping your child safe when they are riding in a vehicle.

It’s no secret that the number of traffic fatalities nationwide is averaging higher than in previous years. That's confirmed by reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Virginia Department of Transportation.

During Super Bowl LVII, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is teaming up with the Warren County Sheriff’s Office to remind football fans everywhere that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.

Virginia law mandates that travelers on roadways with at least two lanes in one direction proceed with caution and, if reasonable, yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the stationary vehicle.

Cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles are used in all kinds of industries to conduct business. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 1,982 fatal occupational injuries were due to transportation incidents in 2021.

Children, relatives, colleagues, neighbors, and friends. These are the passengers that can pay the ultimate price when drivers choose to engage in distracted driving and other dangerous behaviors behind the wheel.

Dates for three annual events emphasizing commercial motor vehicle inspections have been scheduled by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance.

Pursuits in multiple statehouses call for expanding move-over rules to apply to all highway users.

The population over age 65 in the U.S. increased by 35% between 2011 and 2020. In 2020 17% of all traffic fatalities involved adults 65 years of age and older. The number of fatalities increase in adults over 75 and even more after age 85.

The moment a driver looks away from the road, the countdown to a potential accident begins. After just 1.7 seconds, the risk of crashing skyrockets with every millisecond of inattention.

The National Transportation Safety Board has forwarded a list of recommendations to state and national transportation agencies aimed at preventing alcohol and drug-related crashes.

Traffic safety experts have recently come to recognize the power passengers have when they speak up when in a vehicle being driven unsafely, which is why the theme of this year's Drive2Life PSA Contest is "passengers SPEAK UP."

The report examines the costs of one year of crashes that killed an estimated 36,500 people, injured 4.5 million, and damaged 23 million vehicles.

In 2020, of the 35,766 fatal crashes on the nation’s highways and byways, 4,588 (or 12.8%) involved at least one large truck or bus, according to the 2022 Pocket Guide to Large Truck and Bus Statistics published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

There’s no question distracted driving is dangerous — the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports it claimed 3,142 lives in 2020 alone.