Over the past few years, the number of crashes and injuries has slightly declined in the AMATS area and statewide, although we are now seeing an increase in fatalities. Over the last two years, the number of bicycle related crashes and injuries was the lowest its been in recent years. Recent federal legislation requires ODOT and AMATS to establish performance measures and set targets that demonstrate fatal and serious injury reductions on all public roads. The required performance measures for safety are:
- Number of fatalities
- Fatality rate
- Number of serious injuries
- Serious injury rate
- Number of non-motorized fatalities and serious injuries
The current crash report shows that safety performance measures decreased (improved) in all five categories.
AMATS prepares its reports based on crash records provided by the Ohio Department of Public Safety. As the agency responsible for transportation planning in the area, AMATS uses this information to identify needed projects throughout the area. Communities rely on the report when applying for Highway Safety Program funds through ODOT.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) created the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Program with a focus on preventing fatalities and serious injuries on America’s roadways. AMATS created a SS4A Action Plan to better position the region to apply for and receive the implementation dollars associated with SS4A.