Annual traffic safety reports from Utah Department of Transportation or NHTSA

NHTSA Advocates Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication, Utah Adopts Amid 57% Increase in Pedestrian Deaths

Sep 9, 2024, 10:31 PM

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is advocating for the implementation of vehicle-to-vehicle communication technology to reduce fatal crashes on U.S. roads. Utah is among the first states to adopt this new traffic technology. NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman highlighted the crisis of roadway deaths, particularly among vulnerable road users like pedestrians. Pedestrian deaths increased by 57% from 2013 to 2022, rising from 4,779 to 7,522. The agency estimates that the new rule could save 67 lives per year. Transportation officials are making a significant investment in this technology as part of the solution to the recent surge in traffic deaths. NHTSA has also emphasized the importance of street redesign to prevent accidental crashes.