Dec. 14, 2004

For more information contact:
Steve Tudor
515-237-3180

Motor Vehicle-Related Deaths May Be Lowest Since Post World War II

AMES, Iowa –It was 1945 the last time that annual motor vehicle fatal crash rates in Iowa were less than 400 (366 that year).  Following World War II, crash rates began to rise sharply, reaching a peak of 912 fatalities in 1970.  After several decades of traffic safety improvements, new safety legislation, targeted safety enforcement and improved emergency medical services, Iowa is on target to possibly fall below the 400 mark again.

“The numbers are very encouraging at this point,” said Iowa Department of Transportation Director Mark Wandro. “There are several variables that can influence the final numbers, including winter weather, so we will be watching the data very closely over the coming weeks.”

Beginning Dec. 14, 2004, and continuing each Tuesday through Jan. 4, 2005, the DOT will be publishing weekly updates on the fatality numbers.  The updates will be accompanied by a series of facts and background information on the key contributing factors to Iowa’s continued reduction in motor vehicle injuries and fatalities.

Through Dec. 13, 2004, there have been 353 fatalities reported by either official agencies or the media. This compares to 414 fatalities reported for the same period last year or 61 fewer deaths.  The five-year average fatality rate for the month of December is 39.  For a copy of the complete online report, visit http://www.iamvd.com/ods/weekly.pdf.

This week’s update is accompanied by two fact sheets, one that provides statewide statistics on the number of motor vehicles, vehicle miles of travel, and licensed drivers, as well as conviction rates.  The second fact sheet describes some of statutory changes that have helped to significantly reduce fatalities and injuries in the state.

Future updates will focus on:

·         Dec. 21, 2004 – Occupant protection; safer vehicles; emergency medical services

·         Dec. 28, 2004 – A safer road environment; railroad/highway grade crossing safety

·         Jan. 4, 2005  - Ensuring drivers are fully licensed, competent and insured; enforcement; and at-risk driver populations

The complete “Safer Roads” series will be posted on the DOT’s Web site at: www.dot.state.ia.us/saferroads.htm.

Disclaimer: A fatality is considered “crash-related” when death occurs within 30 days of a crash.  Crash-related fatalities are not considered “officially reported” until the Iowa Department of Transportation has been notified by the investigating law enforcement officer or agency.  Because complex crash investigations can delay the official report of fatalities, the numbers for the two most current months are preliminary and can change considerably.

#