Driving toward safer roads: Stronger legislation needed

With approximately 40,000 fatalities on American roadways each year, the need for stronger road safety laws has never been more pressing. As independent agents, you play a crucial role in advocating for the safety and well-being of your clients.

Nationwide recently hosted a roundtable discussion where experts emphasized the importance of taking legislative action to enhance vehicle safety and enforce stricter driving laws. Cathy Chase, President of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, highlighted the necessity for both federal and state governments to take decisive steps. “Congress needs to enact laws directing the U.S. Department of Transportation to make vehicles safer and to motivate states to improve their laws,” Chase stated.

One notable example of effective state-level action is Ohio’s 2023 hands-free legislation. This law has already led to a significant reduction in fatal crashes, with Ohio experiencing a 25% decrease during the 2023 holiday period and a 20% reduction in the first quarter of 2024. These results underscore the impact that well-crafted legislation can have on road safety. “This combined with SmartRide data that shows a 10% reduction in distraction by those enrolled in the program are making real impacts and saving lives,” said Steve English, SVP, External Affairs Government Relations.¹

While advancements in technology, such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, have contributed to safer driving, we must be cautious about over-reliance on these features. Driver assistance technologies can reduce accidents, but they can also lead to complacency among drivers.

Independent agents are in a unique position to help educate clients about the importance of safe driving practices and the benefits of supporting stronger road safety laws. By working together, we can advocate for legislative changes that will make our roads safer for everyone.

Nationwide is committed to a comprehensive approach that combines public awareness, technological advancements, and research to address the multifaceted challenges of road safety. As we move forward, let’s continue to champion stronger laws and embrace innovative solutions to protect our clients and communities.