The Possibility of Zero Fatality Roads

Each year thousands of individuals are killed in car and truck collisions throughout the United States. Policymakers, automobile manufacturers and advocacy groups are working together to reduce those numbers with the ultimate goal of zero fatality roads. According to some experts, that goal may be closer than ever.
New studies released from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reveal that the number of U.S. highway deaths is on a sharp decline. From 1972 to 2013, the number of deaths annually on American highways has decreased 40% to approximately 33,000. At least one specific automobile model, the Honda Odyssey minivan, experienced no fatalities between 2009 and 2012.

Several national trends are helping to create a future with zero car accident fatalities. Most states have instituted formal crackdowns on drunk driving, a leading cause of fatal car collisions. According to crash test data, new designs in motor vehicles have resulted in safer cars and trucks that are better equipped to absorb impact forces. Advanced technologies such as forward collision warning systems and smart roadway communications systems have been linked to the reduction of roadway fatalities. Other factors that may lead to the ultimate goal of zero fatality roads include better road designs and the increased use of passive and active safety systems in cars.

Industry leaders including Volvo and Nissan have begun to set zero-death goals for new models. Volvo has opened its own safety program, AstaZero, to achieve this goal. New federal rules have also helped the automobile industry with its zero fatality goal. Beginning in 2008, all new car models have standard electronic stability control features which are designed to help drivers retain control under spin out or rollover conditions.