Mapping automobile-caused deaths across nation

12.3 annual deaths per 100,000

Jay Blazek Crossley, Nov 29, 11.

A new online mapping tool shows traffic-related deaths across the nation from 2001 to 2009 and distinguishes between vehicle occupants, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists, according to Streetsblog DC:

The World Health Organization reports 12.3 annual traffic deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in the United States. Compare that with 3.85 in Japan and 4.5 in Germany. If the U.S. achieved similar rates, more than 20,000 deaths would be prevented each year.

This map is a useful way of visualizing the terrible consequences of our auto-addicted culture. Beyond that, it can be an indispensable tool for community transportation advocates to show local officials where problem spots are and how their community compares to others.

</p><p>