1A Segment: The Pandemic Saw A Spike In Traffic Deaths. What’s Being Done To Stop It?

"When cities shut down at the start of the pandemic, streets were emptier. There was more speeding, more drinking and driving, and less seatbelt-wearing. Deaths and serious injuries spiked for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike."

"And it didn’t stop once cities reopened. The first half of 2021 had the largest six-month jump in traffic fatalities on record. City leaders and advocates hope the infrastructure bill will help strengthen safety policies."

"What’s causing this spike in traffic deaths and what’s being done to stop it?"

GUESTS
Laura Bliss
Reporter, Bloomberg CityLab

Calvin Gladney
CEO, Smart Growth America

Lewis Leff
Transportation Safety Officer, City of Austin Transportation Department

Jonathan Adkins
Executive director, Governors Highway Safety Association

• Tips to Survive City Riding on Bikeshare
• Tips to Survive City Riding on Bikeshare
• My 7-year love affair with a Surly Steamroller

1. A helmet doesn’t protect you — until you crash
2. Keep your indignant rage in check
3. Assume drivers can’t or don’t see you
4. Assume every taxi intends to kill you
5. During rush hour, assume everyone is channeling the Hulk
6. After 4 p.m., assume all drivers, pedestrians, and riders are drunk
7. Picture every pedestrian as a deer-in-the-headlights
8. Assume every driver is both texting and daydreaming
9. Assume every parked car has a driver
10. Follow the laws of physics
11. Turn your head
12. Always have an escape strategy
13. Always cover the brakes
14. Set up your turns and follow-throughs
15. Keep your eyes up
16. Your body is better suspension than the suspension
17. Your saddle is too low: Finally, you’re driving me crazy