Governors Highway Safety Association’s Efforts to Prioritize Traffic Safety

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The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), a nonprofit association representing the highway safety offices of states, territories, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, is committed to promoting traffic safety and addressing risky driving behaviors. Let’s take a look at some of the key actions and initiatives taken by GHSA in the past year.

Ignition Interlock Devices for Drunk Driving Offenders

GHSA published a study highlighting the need for state laws that determine when ignition interlock devices should be removed from vehicles of drunk driving offenders. This study concluded that such laws can help in reducing repeat offenses. It is alarming that from 2019 to 2021, drunk driving deaths increased by 18 percent. GHSA’s focus on this issue is crucial in making our roads safer.

Addressing Pedestrian Fatalities

In 2022, more than 7,500 pedestrians lost their lives due to accidents involving vehicles. GHSA is actively working to address this issue and will soon release preliminary data on pedestrian fatalities for the first half of 2023. By analyzing this data, GHSA aims to devise effective measures to enhance pedestrian safety.

Supporting Underserved Areas

GHSA has awarded grants to State Highway Safety Offices to support safe and equitable mobility, as well as youth active transportation safety projects in underserved areas. This commitment ensures that communities facing challenges in terms of road safety receive the necessary resources and support.

Advocating for Lower Blood Alcohol Content Limits

To further promote traffic safety, GHSA has updated its policies and priorities to express support for lower state blood alcohol content limits for impaired drivers. This endeavor aims to discourage impaired driving and prevent accidents caused by intoxicated individuals.

Urging the Confirmation of a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Administrator

GHSA is actively urging the U.S. Senate to confirm a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration administrator. This position has remained vacant for an alarming number of days since January 2017—only 96 days filled during this time. By advocating for the appointment of a capable administrator, GHSA aims to ensure effective leadership and the implementation of vital traffic safety initiatives.

While the number of roadway deaths in the United States is projected to reach 4 million in 2024, it is important to acknowledge that statistics on road fatalities have been recorded since 1899. GHSA’s ongoing efforts and initiatives play a crucial role in mitigating the risks and making our roads safer for everyone.

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