PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Rhode Island saw a significant increase in fatal crashes last year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
NHTSA announced that 78 fatal traffic accidents were reported in 2023, an increase of 52 from the previous year.
“We certainly don't want to see a year-on-year increase in traffic fatalities,” said Gillian Young of AAA Northeast.
Approximately 41,000 Americans died in car crashes nationwide last year. According to NHTSA, this is a 3.6% decrease from the previous year.
“It's encouraging to see that traffic fatalities are declining, but they're still at levels that Americans should accept,” Young said. “We cannot allow this level of carnage to become the new normal.”
Young said Rhode Island saw an approximately 38% increase in fatal crashes last year.
“When we look at these numbers, we have to remember that these are real people and real lives,” Young said. That's why it's so important to reduce this number. ”
Young said everyone has a role to play in keeping our roads safe.
“Policymakers, advocates, and industry stakeholders across the country must design safer roads and safer vehicles, keep vehicle speeds at safe levels, and encourage people to make safer choices behind the wheel. We need to work on making every aspect of our transportation system safer, including encouraging,” she said.
She called on motorists to abide by traffic laws and remain alert at all times.
There have been nine fatal crashes so far this year, compared to 24 during the same period last year, according to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation.