2021 Sees Increase in Traffic Deaths Due to Distracted Driving, Speeding, and Drunk Driving.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reported that nearly 43,000 people died in U.S. traffic crashes in 2021, the highest number in 16 years, with deaths due to speeding and impaired or distracted driving on the rise. Fatal crashes involving at least one distracted driver rose by 12%, while fatalities involving alcohol-impaired driving were up 14%. The number of pedestrians killed rose 13%, and cyclist fatalities were up 2% for the year. The agency has launched a $5 million advertising campaign to keep drivers focused on the road.