A recent report from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) states that fatalities due to traffic in Pennsylvania hit a record low in 2014, the department announced on Wednesday.
This statistic has been recorded since 1928; in 2014, a total of 1,195 fatalities were reported. According to the report, there exists a trend that favors the eventual goal of having zero fatalities on the road.
“PennDOT continuously strives to drive down crash and fatality numbers, and we ultimately want to reach zero deaths on our roads,” Acting PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards said. “Keeping in mind that each crash or death involves a member of someone’s family, we urge the motoring public to be aware of their driving behavior by observing traffic laws, paying attention and using caution.”
Significant decreases were seen in the number of deaths caused by or involving unbuckled individuals, driving under the influence of alcohol and hitting trees. Unbuckled fatalities fell to 383 from 425, alcohol-related accidents fell to 294 from 342 and tree-hitting accidents decreased to 221.
PennDOT states that $50 million has been invested in safety enhancements; it regularly sees investments of approximately $20 million in safety education measures.
Despite decreasing numbers of accidents involving drowsy drivers and utility poles, accidents involving those 65 and older saw increases from 2013 to 2014.
The department has made the Pennsylvania Crash Information Tool available to residents.
“Highway safety is our top priority, and this tool will help educate our customers about safety in their communities,” Richards said. “The site also gives quick access to our many safety and emergency partners, community leaders and media who may want to review this information.”
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