Road and Traffic Safety

Book excerpt: The disparity between urban and rural motor vehicle fatalities in the U.S. is well documented in academic research and reports show discrepancy between urban and rural fatalities. However, despite the decline in overall motor vehicle fatalities, the difference between urban and rural fatality rates has stayed relatively consistent. Rural fatalities still account for over half the overall fatalities despite having fewer vehicle miles travelled (VMT) than in urban areas. Therefore, examining the reasons behind the continued discrepancy between urban and rural motor vehicle deaths remains an important issue in safety management and research. This book discusses practices, roles of human behavior and effective programs in road and traffic safety.