In the transportation industry, we talk a lot about Vision Zero: an initiative that aims to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries throughout the United States. But it’s possible to get so caught up in metrics and technologies to help us reach our goal that we don’t stop to think about why Vision Zero matters so much.
Sunday, 21 November, was the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. It’s an international event intended to honor the 1.35 million people killed and millions more injured on roadways each year.
Rising rates
According to the National Safety Council, 42,060 people died in motor vehicle crashes, a 24% increase from 2019 in the rate of traffic deaths. And 2021 is looking even worse, so far on course for a 16% spike from that 2020 rate.
That’s an incredible human cost, and so much loss of life is simply unacceptable. Emergency responders, too, are affected by the trauma of crashes. Add to that the suffering of families and friends left behind after a loved one’s accident, and the picture is even bleaker.
But we can change it. Hexagon is a charter member of Vision Zero Network’s Membership Circle of Supporters, and we are committed to making a difference in roadway safety.
The power of data
By working closely with departments of transportation and developing solutions that enable officials to make data-driven decisions about highway improvements, we believe it is possible to reduce the number of fatalities on the road.
More lives saved is a goal worth striving for, and we’re proud to be part of Vision Zero’s plan. Urgent, serious action must be taken to make Vision Zero a reality, and we’re ready to do what it takes. Learn more about the ways we’re working toward safer roads.
