Our Mission

The Center for Transportation Safety conducts education, technology transfer, and research programs to support improving the safety of roadways in Texas and the United States.

How We Accomplish the CTS Mission

Developing and testing roadway safety technologies and supporting their implementation

Aiding transportation planners to better prepare for future roadway needs

Studying complex policy issues and providing input on how roadway safety affects transportation and development

Conducting research and studies that foster productivity and competitiveness in the roadway safety industry

Fostering public awareness of the importance of roadway safety to the economy of this state

Tranferring knowledge and technology to industry, state, and local governments, and the public

Establishing programs and partnerships with public or private entities

Engaging in other activities consistent with the purpose of the center

WHY IT MATTERS

The Why

In 2024, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 42,514 transportation-related fatalities in the United States. Texas represented approximately 10.5% of those fatalities.

It is critical to note underlying these data are people. People killed or injured in motor vehicle crashes included mothers, fathers, children, brothers and sisters, co-workers, friends, and neighbors. People killed or injured were from every walk of life and included doctors, truck drivers, business owners, accountants, and retirees to name just a few. The impact doesn’t stop there. Each fatality and injury had significant and negative rippling effects on families, friends, and workplaces.

It is because of the significant loss of life, the economic impact, and the impact to a wide range of individuals that it is critical to address the issue of transportation safety.

39,345

2024 Fatalities in the US

4,000+

2023 fatalities in TX

$1.87M

estimated impact of a single fatality

$5.7B

Loss of life impact per year on average