A USDOT University Transportation Center

The Number of People Who Violate Traffic Laws

Violation of traffic laws often results in a reduction in traffic safety. It increases the chances of road accidents and fatalities on traffic roads and can damage vehicles with or without harm to those involved. Depending on how lethal the accidents are, personal injuries might vary from minor to catastrophic. A reduction in the number of individuals who violate traffic laws can greatly reduce the number of road accidents and fatalities.1,2

This indicator helps determine the effectiveness of the following objectives

  • Less Contamination
  • Less Emissions
  • Less Traffic Noise
  • Connectivity and Inclusion
  • Healthy Destinations
  • Less Traffic Violence
  • Active Transportation
  • Green Space

Data Collection

The use of traffic cameras is used to collect data on the number of people who violate traffic laws. These cameras can be placed at intersections or other busy areas and record footage of vehicles passing through. Law enforcement officials can then review this footage to identify any potential violations. Additionally, insurance companies also have an incentive to collect data on traffic violations, as this information can be used to help set insurance rates.3

Examples

Adults admit to not always using safety belts in the back seat, IIHS survey finds

A study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that many drivers admit to violating traffic laws. The study polled 2,000 drivers in the United States and found that nearly half of them admitted to not using safety belts in the back seat and speeding on highways, while one in four said they had run a red light before. While the overall number of traffic violations has declined in recent years, the IIHS study shows that there is still a significant problem with dangerous driving behaviors. The IIHS study highlights the need for continued education and enforcement of traffic laws. The study also emphasized that drivers who break the law are putting themselves and others at risk of serious injury or death.

https://www.iihs.org/news/detail/adults-admit-to-not-always-using-safety-belts-in-the-back-seat-iihs-survey-finds

1. Consequences of traffic violations - traffic law [Internet]. New York City Bar - Legal Referral Service. 2018 [cited 2022 Aug 12]. Available from: https://www.nycbar.org/get-legal-help/article/criminal-law/consequences-of-traffic-violations/
2. Olawale, J. Consequences of disobeying traffic rules and regulations in Nigeria [Internet]. Legit.ng. 2017 [cited 2022 Aug 12]. Available from: https://www.legit.ng/1126122-consequences-disobeying-traffic-rules-regulations-nigeria.html
3. Traffic and red light camera laws by state [Internet]. Findlaw. 2016 [cited 2022 Aug 17]. Available from: https://www.findlaw.com/traffic/traffic-tickets/state-traffic-camera-restrictions.html