DES MOINES, Iowa (RFD NEWS) — A new survey is highlighting a dangerous disconnect between perception and reality on rural roads. While many drivers do not view rural roads as especially hazardous, they account for more than 40 percent of all U.S. traffic fatalities.
Laramie Sandquist with Nationwide Agribusiness joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report in honor of Rural Road Safety Awareness Week to discuss the findings and share tips for improving safety.
A Nationwide Agribusiness survey finds rural roads account for more than 40% of U.S. traffic fatalities, despite carrying only 30% of vehicle traffic, highlighting the need for safer driving around farm equipment and other rural hazards.
In his interview with RFD News, Sandquist said although only about 30 percent of vehicle miles traveled occur on rural roads, more than 40 percent of fatal crashes happen there. He added that roughly 70 percent of those fatalities occur on roads with speed limits above 55 miles per hour, highlighting the role excessive speed plays in many crashes. He also noted that about half of those killed in rural road crashes were not wearing seat belts.
Sandquist said many drivers underestimate the unique hazards found on rural roads, including slow-moving farm equipment, ATVs, UTVs, wildlife, changing weather conditions, and undivided two-lane highways.
To improve safety, he encouraged drivers to slow down, stay alert to changing road conditions, expect to encounter farm equipment during the growing season, eliminate distractions such as cell phones, and always wear a seat belt.
As Rural Road Safety Awareness Week continues, Sandquist urged motorists to remain patient and attentive while traveling rural roads, especially during the busy summer growing season and as harvest approaches. He added that additional rural road safety resources are available through Nationwide Agribusiness.
LEARN MORE: D.R.I.V.E. the 5 - Nationwide
