Crash, Not Accident: Street Safety and Changing Our Perception
When it comes to street safety, it’s important to think about the language we use. Instead of using the term “accident,” let's refer to them as preventable crashes. The term "accident" suggests things happened by chance, and nobody is to blame. But by referring to them as "crashes," we can understand the importance of human actions, infrastructure, and policies in road safety and saving lives.
Look at the news every day. It is filled with headlines such as:
Woman Dies From Injuries After Car Jumps Curb
Out of Control Car Crushes Man Against Wall
Car Mowes Down Little Girl After Barreling Onto Sidewalk
Man Killed When Struck By Car
These types of headlines have been the center of the debate of “crash” versus “accident.” It is all a question of who is responsible, preventability, and analyzing all factors involved.
The Power of Language
Language can shape how we see things and the words we choose matter. When we call something an "accident," we may unintentionally overlook the preventable nature of the crash itself. By using the term "crash," we emphasize the need to understand what led to the event and how we can prevent it in the future. This opens up possibilities for making our streets safer for everyone.
Reassessing Responsibility
Let's be clear, safety on the streets is a shared responsibility. When a crash happens, it's not just about blaming one person; it's about recognizing that multiple factors can come into play. As drivers, pedestrians, city planners, and policymakers, we all play a part in keeping our streets safe.
Let’s look at it from this perspective: very rarely (if ever) do we hear the phrase “airplane accident.” It is referred to as an airplane crash. We assume, in this case, that in order for an airplane to crash, there is often some kind of reason behind it, such as mechanical problems or human error. The root cause must be figured out and named to either avoid or eliminate the cause. Why not take the same approach to car crashes?
Human Factors in Crashes
We all make mistakes, but it's essential to be mindful of how our actions can impact road safety. Things like distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence can lead to crashes that can be prevented. According to the New York Times, almost all car crashes stem from factors such as these, with only 5% percent being the result of vehicle malfunctions, weather, or other factors. By being aware of this, we can take steps to drive more responsibly and keep ourselves and others safe.
Infrastructure and Street Design
Ever wondered why some roads feel safer than others? Well, street design matters a lot. Poorly designed roads, lack of crosswalks, and inadequate lighting can all contribute to crashes. By investing in better infrastructure and safer road design, we can make our streets more forgiving and less prone to these incidents occurring.
The Role of Policy and Legislation
Good policies and laws are crucial in promoting safety on our streets. By focusing on "crash not accident," we encourage our policymakers to review existing laws and make improvements where needed. Stronger enforcement of traffic rules, penalties for dangerous driving, and incentives for implementing safety measures and additional tools all work together to reduce crashes.
Data-Driven Approaches
Data is like a superpower in understanding and preventing crashes. Collecting and analyzing crash data helps us identify patterns and high-risk areas, leading to better decision-making. By using this evidence-based approach, we can make informed choices about the next steps to make each street safer.
Encouraging Active Transportation
Walking and cycling not only benefit our health but also contribute to safer streets. When we design streets with pedestrian-friendly features and dedicated bike lanes, we encourage more people to choose active transportation. This reduces traffic congestion and decreases the chances of crashes involving vulnerable road users.
Public Awareness and Advocacy
Safety starts with awareness and action. By spreading the word about the "crash not accident" concept through community engagement, public campaigns, and education, we can raise awareness about the importance of road safety. Together, we can create a culture that values responsibility and prioritizes prevention.
Let's shift our mindset and language from "accident" to "crash" to make our streets safer for everyone. Recognizing crashes as preventable events empowers us to take a proactive approach to street safety. It's about all of us, as drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and decision-makers, working together to create a safer and more enjoyable experience on our roads. So, let's buckle up, be attentive, and remember that every action we take can make a difference in preventing crashes and saving lives.
