WASHINGTON — The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) last week reported new, lifesaving technology as one of the primary factors driving down the nation’s vehicle fatality rates. Traffic deaths fell to the lowest level in 56 years in 2009, with fewer than 34,000 people killed, according to U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood (www.nhtsa.gov). 
"Fatalities and serious injuries resulting from motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. are at their lowest level in 49 years. This fact is remarkable given that during the same timeframe the number of licensed drivers has more than doubled and annual vehicle miles traveled have more than quadrupled," said Dave McCurdy, president and CEO of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers. "Safety progress results from industry and regulators using this data to work together and produce effective policy."
Government and the industry are doing many things very well to innovate, develop and implement effective safety systems and programs. Significant technological advances in the design and construction of automobiles, tough but fair regulatory initiatives at the federal level, increased safety belt usage and road infrastructure improvements are all having a historic impact on vehicle safety according to the Alliance.
"Safety is among the industry’s top priorities, and it is a top priority for our customers," McCurdy said.
According to Consumer Reports’ Auto Brands Perceptions survey for 2010, the number one factor consumers consider when they purchase a new vehicle is safety. Safety leads even quality and durability.
At a time when vehicle safety is under intense scrutiny, the Alliance points out that its members continue voluntarily enhancing safety — and lead regulations — through the introduction of anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, side airbags for head and chest protection, side curtain airbags, pre-crash occupant positioning, lane departure warning systems, radar use for collision avoidance and more. Automakers continue their high-tech research and implementation of new safety technologies, such as autonomous braking systems and vehicle safety communications systems for crash avoidance.
McCurdy added, "A range of data demonstrates that our roads are safer today, even with consumers driving more. These results can be attributed to more individuals using their safety belts, rigorous R&D and high quality standards by automakers and regulatory requirements that lead the world. However, even with all of this new technology the safety belt is still among the most fundamental safety devices and in any auto."
The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers is a trade association of 11 car and light truck manufacturers including BMW Group, Chrysler, Ford Motor Co., General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen.
