Highway Deaths Climbing

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 43,443 people were killed on the country’s highways in 2005. That number is up 1.4% from 2004, and the government agency says the higher number can be attributed to more motorcycle and pedestrian deaths.

While that overall number is alarming, car safety is getting better, and the number of people injured in actual car crashes was down. We’re still shocked that 55% of passengers killed in accidents weren’t wearing seat belts. Who’s not wearing seat belts these days? This story should at least reinforce the need for that simple safety measure. 

[Highway Deaths Highest Since 1990, Forbes]