Citation

Foley J. ITE J. 1991; 61(7): 61-64.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1991, Institute of Transportation Engineers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The evolution of traffic safety in the United Sates is reviewed in an effort to provide insight into current roles in providing a safe transportation environment. Aspects of traffic in the 1920s and 1930s are described, as well as the immediate postwar period. The 1965 Baldwin Amendment promoted highway safety by requiring that each state have a highway safety program as a prerequisite for federal highway aid funds. Landmark legislation in 1966 added 'Highway Safety' to Title 23 of the United States Code, and promulgated safety standards. The 1966 legislation also authorized funds for safety research. In the subsequent years, Congress determined that federal interests in highway safety needed to be supported by funding, and the 1970 Highway Safety Act, did so. The Act of 1973 provided for several new programs. The 1974 55 mph speed limit is also noted.