US traffic deaths down for eighth consecutive quarter

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The first nine months of 2019 saw traffic deaths fall by 2.2 percent — to 26,730 people — according to the latest National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, with the third quarter of 2019 capping a decline in deaths that has been building since the fourth quarter of 2017.

“Dangerous actions continue to plague drivers, such as speeding, distraction, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” NHTSA Acting Administrator James Owens said. “The path forward calls for a combination of policies, research, and action that requires committed and sustained effort from State, local, and Federal governments; and from highway safety partners, schools, and communities – all committed to reducing fatalities on our Nation’s roads.”

The nation’s fatality rate now holds at 1.10 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. At this time last year, the figure hovered at 1.13. The result was a message of cautious optimism from the department.

“This is positive news, but more work remains to be done to make our roads safer for everyone,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said.

The latest data from the NHTSA also tracked an increase in driving throughout the country: vehicle miles over the first nine months of 2019 rose by approximately 24 billion miles.