There was a slight increase in the number of traffic deaths last year according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
The latest data shows that 1,230 people died in traffic accidents last year—which is up about nine percent compared to 2020.
Although fatalities in crashes involving impaired driving decreased last year, pedestrian fatalities increased. Also increasing in 2021 were fatalities involving unrestrained motorists, heavy trucks, motorcycles, aggressive driving, and crashes involving drivers 17 and younger.
PennDOT says they are focusing on behavioral safety efforts such as discouraging speeding and distracted driving. In addition, money is also being invested in road improvements like rumble strips.
