Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the streets have become much more lonely.
In the first few months of the public health emergency, every car trip was a carefully planned event. University of Oregon staff and students continue to work primarily and take lessons from home.
Most people would believe that it is likely much safer to be behind the wheel of a car during a pandemic than it is in normal driving conditions, but the data shows that it is not. While this doesn’t seem intuitive, the pandemic in the U.S. has resulted in riskier driving behavior and deadlier roads.
The UO’s Vehicle Accident Review Board monitored an alarming market insurance trend that predicted a decrease in the number of accidents but an increase in severity. It turns out these early market trends were correct.
Preliminary estimates by the National Security Council show that the empty roads became more deadly as Americans drove less and traveled fewer kilometers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has studied road safety throughout the pandemic and has found that driving patterns and behaviors have changed significantly in the first few months.
Of the drivers who stayed on the road, some were riskier, including speeding, missing seat belts, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Research studies covering cities in North Carolina, Florida, Maryland, and Massachusetts show an increase in risk behavior while driving during the pandemic.
Many organizations, including the UO, have seen an increase in major automobile accidents over the past year, prompting the UO Vehicle Accident Review Panel to issue an important reminder to comply with the rules of safe road driving.
The board advises people to follow these basic rules when getting into a car:
- Follow the speed limits even when the roads are clear and traffic is light.
- Be aware of the increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic when people are walking or cycling to get out of the house safely during quarantine.
- Conversely, pedestrians and cyclists should remember that reduced traffic means no traffic and be vigilant when crossing or walking on roads.
- Practice defensive driving: buckle up, a sober driver or arrange alternative transportation, get a lot of sleep avoid fatigue and drive carefully, Avoid Distractions.
- Stay engaged in the habits of young drivers and practice with them frequently. You can find tips on the National Security Council website.
- Staff and students should consider allocating extra time when they start their morning commute again. Getting to campus safely and stress-free is well worth the extra time.
In addition, resources are available to students on campus to ensure their safety and avoid risky travel.
Duck Rides is home to major night transportation services for UO students and staff. The program offers safe, friendly, and necessary trips.
Duck riding is a partnership between UO’s previous evening student driving services (Safe Ride, Designated Driver Shuttle, and Campus Shuttle) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ride on the program is free and rides are offered between 5:30 PM and 10:30 PM every day of the week the school is held.
