Traffic fatalities hit all-time high, holidays could be even deadlier

The Austin Transportation Department tells FOX 7 Austin that the most severe crashes are occurring on higher-speed, wider roadways, such as freeways.

AUSTIN, Texas - There has been 99 fatal crashes that resulted in 107 deaths in Austin, and now officials say as we enter the holiday season, it can be an even deadlier time.

In 2021, there has been a record setting number of fatalities on Austin roadways, and according to Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) spokesperson Diann Hodges, on Texas roadways as well.

"We are on track to see the most fatalities across the state in car crashes since the early 80’s," Hodges said. "…we’re seeing an aggressiveness in driving that we haven’t seen in a long time."

A crash Tuesday night at South Congress and Little Texas Lane involving a vehicle and a pedestrian made for the city of Austin’s 99th fatal accident. Compared to this time last year, there were 86 fatal crashes and 92 deaths.

ATCEMS: Pedestrian hit by car on South Congress Ave, avoid the area

Drivers are being asked to avoid the area and to seek alternate routes if possible.

"For whatever reason, in the last two years, we’ve been seeing fatalities jump," Hodges said.

The Austin Transportation Department tells FOX 7 Austin that the most severe crashes are occuring on higher-speed, wider roadways, such as freeways. A map from Vision Zero shows the high-injury roadways and where the accidents occur. The map shows high-concentrated areas along South 1st near Slaughter Lane and William Cannon Drive, East Riverside and Pleasant Valley, MLK Boulevard, Parmer Lane, and Braker Lane.

However, Hodges says these crashes are happening all over and throughout the state, adding the main thing people can do to is to be a respectful and responsible driver.

Someone has died on a Texas roadway every day for 21 years, says TxDOT

TxDOT is once again pushing its #EndTheStreakTX campaign to urge drivers to make the best and safest choices they can while behind the wheel.

"That way you can ensure that you, your loved one you may have in your car, and the other people who are driving trying to get to their destination get to where they need to go," she said.

For those traveling this holiday season, TxDOT wants to stress that more people will be on the road and road conditions might change. Travelers can stay up to date on the latest traffic conditions online here.

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Someone has died on a Texas roadway every day for 21 years, says TxDOT
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