Researchers see sharp increase in Alabama traffic deaths

By Associated Engineering Press

Twenty five percent more people died in car wrecks statewide in 2016 compared to the year before, according to traffic data released Tuesday by the University of Alabama’s Center for Advanced Public Safety.

The report pointed to four main causes for the rise in deaths: speed, seat belts, distracted driving and pedestrians.

For first responders, the increase in preventable wrecks is frustrating, Piedmont Emergency Medical Services Chief Phillip Winkles said Tuesday. Sources: The Anniston Star, The Tuscaloosa News, WBRC Fox 6, The Crimson White, WKRG CBS 5, WBRC Fox 6 (2), WSFA NBC 12, Yellowhammer News, WVTM NBC 13, WLOX 13, Florence Times Daily, WRCB TV 3, WBHM FM 90.3, WALA Fox 10, WKRG CBS 5, WNCF ABC 32, WSFA NBC 12 (2), Insurance Journal, Athens News-Courier, WTVY 4, WBBJ ABC 7, WPMI NBC, The Cullman Times, The New York Times

In 1837, The University of Alabama became one of the first five universities in the nation to offer engineering classes. Today, UA’s College of Engineering has more than 5,200 students and more than 170 faculty. In recent years, students in the College have been named USA Today All-USA College Academic Team members, Goldwater, Hollings, Portz, Boren, Mitchell and Truman scholars.

Author: Associated Engineering Press    /    Posted on: January 18, 2017    /    Posted in:   Center for Advanced Public Safety, In The News, Research    /    Features: