U.S. roadway deaths are rising again at an alarming rate. Drunk, drugged, and distracted driving are on the rise. According to NHTSA, statistics show there were 40,901 motor-vehicle traffic fatalities in the U.S. in 2023. Of those fatalities, “passenger vehicle occupants” (i.e., occupants of passenger cars, light trucks/SUVs, vans, minivans) accounted for roughly 59% of all traffic fatalities. Also in 2023, nearly 50% of those passenger-vehicle occupants killed were unrestrained (i.e., not wearing a seatbelt) among those for whom seatbelt use was known, and among the 604 fatalities of passengers of teen drivers (ages 15-18), 62% were other teens riding with another teen driver (trafficsafetymarketing.gov).
Just telling people to drive safely isn’t enough. Passengers need to play a more active role in their own safety and that of others. We can lower these numbers by empowering passengers to speak up when their lives are at risk due to a reckless driver. If you’re riding in a vehicle and you don’t feel safe because the driver may be:
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Texting/using their cell phone when driving
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Under the influence of alcohol or drugs
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Driving too fast
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Tailgating
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Is driving while tired
SPEAK UP! It’s not just your life at stake, but the life of the driver and other folks on the road.
By working together, we can create safer roads and protect lives, ensuring that every journey ends with a safe arrival.