Another proof on how NYC has its driving safety priorities right: though traffic fatalities increased in 2010, that number is still half the national average, according to the New York City Department of Transportation. According to 2010 data released just last Monday, New York City is still the safest big city in the country.

Traffic fatalities for 2010 was 269, compared to 258 for 2009, which is still a low number, considering the size of New York City. The increase could be attributed to motorcycle accidents, whose fatalities grew from 29 to 39 from 2009 to 2010, respectively. Another factor would be bicycle accidents, although to note, pedestrian fatalities are still on the decline.

Now that the NYC DOT knows this, they can increase overall defensive driving and driving safety for 2011 by focusing on these areas. Another thing they are looking at is that most of the fatalities were caused by drivers who were speeding. In an effort to lessen fatalities, they are conceiving public awareness campaigns encouraging residents to drive slower. They are also looking into key problem areas, and finding solutions to them.

As these steps are taken, one can only look forward to next year, and how these changes will affect the numbers by then.

For more traffic safety information please visit www.NationalSafetyCommission.com

Labels: motorcycle safety, pedestrian safety, Traffic fatalities, traffic safety