Every year, there are approximately 6 million car accidents in the United States. Those accidents result in around 3 million injuries each year and more than 90 deaths every day. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, “speeding is one of the most prevalent factors contributing to traffic crashes,” and speeding accounted for 26% of all traffic fatalities in 2017. That percentage increases to around 40% when there is snow, slush or ice on the road.
But the statistic that might be the most surprising is that the vast majority (87%) of speeding-related fatalities do not occur on Interstate highways. Almost half of them occur on roads with speed limits under 55 mph.
Do You Feel the Need for Speed?
Well, Maverick, since it may have been a while since you last read The Tortoise and the Hare, SWANA and Waste & Recycling Workers Week would like to remind everyone of the lesson Aesop tried to teach us all. Slow and steady wins the race.
Being struck by a motorist is a leading cause of death for waste and recycling collection employees. This is completely preventable. Our waste and recycling workers are working hard every day to keep us and the environment clean and safe. We are asking everyone to do their part to keep our waste and recycling workers safe too.
When you are driving through your neighborhood or down a busy road, slow down and drive more carefully especially when near waste and recycling collection vehicles. We understand you may be running late or in a hurry to make it to an important meeting, but please remember your choices impact the safety of those around you.