Safety InitiativesOn the national and statewide level, many initiatives and programs in regard to traffic safety exist. To access a list of national and statewide safety initiatives, please click HERE or on the section List of Safety Initiatives.

One of the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) goals is to work closely with all safety partners to heighten the awareness of all drivers on highway safety measures. Safety is a shared responsibility and all drivers need to recognize, understand, and take advantage of the safety features that are built into our roadways.

In addition, FHWA works with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Laws and Ordinances (NCUTLO) to develop uniform traffic laws and regulations. Traffic laws must clearly and accurately define the responsibilities of drivers and pedestrians; if not, traffic signs, markings, and signals will fail in their purpose. Laws must also state who has authority to provide and enforce the observance of traffic control devices.

Over the past four decades, the U.S. Department of Transportation has used a variety of tools to reduce highway fatalities and injuries. The department has worked to improve safety through regulations and has also made grants available to states for promoting responsible driving while partnering with industry and public interest groups on public education campaigns. The department also supports engineering and technological research so that state and local agencies can construct and maintain safer transportation systems.