I spotted this USA Today headline while walking to work this morning: "Traffic Deaths at Lowest in 60 Years." While it is difficult to tell what has driven them down to about the same absolute level as 1950 -- when there were 80 percent fewer cars on the road -- I note that the most recent transportation law enacted in 2005 included the acronym SAFETEA for a reason, namely a renewed focus on, and new investments in, improved safety in transportation. And of course the current Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood has aggressively pursued a campaign against distracted driving, which can kill.
While I've written much about the many flaws and problems with the federal transportation program, it looks like officials deserve some credit for this remarkable good news. Congratulations, U.S. DOT.