The Road to Zero initiative is a program spearheaded by several different safety and traffic organizations with a single goal: to end traffic fatalities in the next 30 years. While this may seem like a lofty goal, these groups believe they have a plan that can guide them toward that end and save countless lives.
Three Guiding Principles
A partnership between the National Safety Council, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Federal Highway Administration, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is behind the Road to Zero initiative. This emphasis on cooperation between different groups is one of its guiding principles.
Another core principle is the idea that traffic fatalities and injuries are, in fact, preventable. While this may seem simple, it is actually quite important. Too often, individuals or groups dismiss traffic injuries and deaths as an inevitable part of having so many cars on the road. But by acknowledging the problem as one that can be solved, there is a renewed focus on finding the right solution.
This is where the third principle comes in: the idea that developments in technology and changes in attitude have and will continue to provide solutions that ultimately eliminate traffic deaths. This includes a comprehensive “safe system” approach to driving and traffic, which emphasizes allowing for human error and responsible road behavior to make for a safer driving environment.
Importance of Self-Driving Cars
The advent of self-driving cars is expected to be a major part of the push for a reduction and the ultimate elimination of traffic fatalities. While this new technology is only being tested in certain areas, there is the potential for the removal of human error. This is likely to be a controversial part of the program, but it is integral to the Road to Zero and finding a way to end traffic injuries and deaths.
Until the goals of this ambitious program are met, traffic injuries and fatalities will continue to be a part of our lives. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, then call us at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, today at (212) 986-7353.