The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched the “Speeding Catches Up with You” campaign to remind drivers about the deadly consequences of speeding. The campaign runs through July 31, supported by a $9.5 million national media buy, including English and Spanish ads for TV, radio, and digital platforms.
Key Highlights
- Campaign Duration: Through July 31
- Media Budget: $9.5 million for national ads
- Fatalities in 2022: 12,151 deaths in speeding-related crashes
- Injuries in 2022: Estimated 300,595 injuries
- Fatality Reduction: 3% decrease from 2021
NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman, along with Teri Gage, Ross Chastain, and Matthew Hamon, emphasized the critical importance of slowing down. With the summer vacation season in full swing, the campaign encourages drivers to prioritize safety over speed.
The NHTSA data reveals that while the number of fatalities in speeding-related crashes fell slightly in 2022, speeding was still a factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities. “Speeding accounts for nearly a third of all fatalities on our roads. While speeding may seem like the quick and easy option to make up some time when you’re running late, it puts you, your loved ones, and everyone else on the road in danger,” said Deputy Administrator Shulman.
The campaign also stresses that speeding is dangerous on all types of roads, not just highways. In 2022, 87% of all speeding-related traffic fatalities occurred on non-interstate roads.
NRSS Progress and Initiatives
Safer speeds are a key objective of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Roadway Safety Strategy (NRSS). The 2024 Progress Report highlights significant actions taken to enhance road safety, including:
- Funding: Awarded $1.7 billion through the Safe Streets and Roads for All discretionary grant program.
- Vehicle Safety Technologies: Advanced rulemakings for automatic emergency braking for all new passenger vehicles and commercial trucks.
- Impaired-Driving Prevention: Initiated rulemaking for standards to deter alcohol-impaired driving.
- Regulation Updates: Revised key road safety regulations and guidance to improve safety for all road users.
- Emergency Medical Services: Expanded the National Emergency Medical Services Information System.
- Partnerships: Over 160 organizations, including 36 state transportation agencies, joined as Allies in Action of the NRSS.
For more information, visit NHTSA.gov/Speeding. Additional campaign materials are available at TrafficSafetyMarketing.gov.
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