DELMARVA- A recent Mid-Atlantic AAA survey indicates that although there seems to be a decline in unsafe driving behaviors, speeding and handheld cellphone use on Delmarva--particularly in the state of Delaware--remain high.
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, fewer people were on the roads, but deadly crashes soared. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 38,000 people died in highway crashes nationwide, the most since 2007. Delaware-based AAA Mid-Atlantic's survey found Delaware drivers less likely to run red lights, drive while drunk, high or drowsy, since 2018, but speeding and using a cell phone behind the wheel went up.
Maryland Department Of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer said fatal car crashes have also increased in Maryland.
"In 2020, 216 fatalities were attributed to distracted driving and that's more than a third of our overall fatalities," she said.
Moreover, data from the Delaware Office of Highway Safety indicates that the highest reported percentage of crashes (fatal or causing a serious injury) occurred in New Castle County with 46%, followed by Sussex County with 30% and Kent County with 24%.
AAA Mid-Atlantic Spokeswoman Jana Tidwell said the end of 'Daylight Saving Time' becomes another factor because locals now have to get used to brighter mornings and darker evenings
"AAA urges motorists to stay alert, the next few weeks we'll see that adjustment period for motorists as we adjust to the difference look of the morning commute and look of the evening commute...night driving is very different than daytime driving," Tidwell said.
In addition, MDOT's goal is zero highway deaths, and as the holiday season approaches, drivers must pay extra attention and abide by the speed limit
"This time of year we also do see impaired driving crashes, and that's a significant issue as well," she said. "Again, we remind folks to be that sober driver and make sure everybody arrives home safely."
Delmarva experts said continued efforts on the coast are needed to ensure everyone gets home safe and sound at the end of the day.
