Latest figures from WHO show that over 16,000 road users were killed in 2020 as a result of traffic collisions in Mexico. To address the rising number of collisions, the country introduced its first national law for road safety last year, which, together with other regional initiatives and campaigns, aims to reduce the number of traffic accidents and fatalities on the streets.
Identifying Common Driving Violations
Driving at excessive speed is one of the main causes of road traffic accidents in Mexico and, in 2020, speeding caused over 16% of highway collisions. The new road safety strategy will unify driving laws with recognized limits to make it easier for authorities and drivers to take action over violations. Over the border in Arizona, Traffic Watch, a new online tool, allows people in Tucson to report incidents of speeding and other reckless driving without having to call 911. Arizona Car Accident Lawyers understand that it can be frightening to be the victim of dangerous driving, and anyone involved in a serious accident will need to contact the police as a priority. However, in any region, easier options for identifying even minor traffic violations could help to prevent more serious accidents from occurring.
Prioritizing The Protection of Pedestrians and Cyclists
As the new road safety law prioritizes vulnerable road users, campaigners hope that it will also be effective in reducing the number of fatal hit and runs involving pedestrians and cyclists. Over two thirds of guilty drivers leave the scene of an accident where a pedestrian or cyclist is seriously harmed and only 5% are ever caught and charged. Even with the law in place, local rallies organized by the families of accident victims continue to demand greater safety on the roads for all users.
Updating the Safety Regulations of Commercial Vehicles
Currently legal in the US, Canada, and Mexico, double tractor-trailers are used for carrying large amounts of cargo long distances. Despite their practical uses, one member of Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies had hoped to ban them because they cause up to 8% of accidents on the roads of Mexico every year. Although the proposed bill has been overruled, updates to the safety details of an existing regulation applying to weights and dimensions will be introduced.
Together with the new national law, safety campaigns, and initiatives continue to make changes in regulations in order to minimize the risk of injury and accidents on the roads.
