Vision Zero Under Scrutiny with Fatal Crashes on the Rise

The year 2020 was one of the deadliest on record for the roads of Washington, D.C., despite there being fewer cars on the road. Now some are wondering whether Washington’s Vision Zero program, which began in 2015 and is meant to reduce fatal traffic accidents, is truly effective.

The statistics

According to statistics, 2020 saw the most fatal motor vehicle accidents in Washington, D.C., at 37 crashes that resulted in fatalities. And as of November 2021, preliminary statistics showed the number of traffic fatalities in Washington kept up the pace, with 37 fatal motor vehicle accidents. In addition, pedestrian deaths also increased in 2020. In that year, 15 pedestrians and three bicyclists lost their lives after being struck by a car. Moreover, 2020 saw over 4,000 motorists or passengers injured in car crashes. That year also saw 459 pedestrians injured and 251 bicyclists injured.

Vision Zero

Washington’s Vision Zero program, implemented in 2015 was meant to lower the number of traffic fatalities. However, given the recent increases in traffic fatalities, the program is being audited. Vision Zero only reduced fatal motor vehicle accidents once in the six years the program has been running. The Office of the D.C. Auditor will conduct a 10-month investigation of the program. The program aimed to do away with traffic fatalities and major injuries by 2024.

Time will tell if Vision Zero will be effective, and if car crashes will go down in 2022. If you were injured in an automobile accident you will want to explore all your options for compensation carefully so you can make decisions that are in your best interests.