Federal Traffic Safety Initiatives
Driver-Oriented Programs Administered by NHTSA
State and local governments have the primary responsibility for promoting traffic safety. The U.S. Department of Transportation, however, participates in numerous programs and partnerships to assist these entities in conducting their responsibilities. The key Federal agency that focuses on the noncommercial driver is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This agency’s mission is to "develop, promote, and implement effective educational, engineering, and enforcement programs toward ending preventable tragedies and reducing economic costs associated with vehicle use and highway travel." NHTSA participates in diverse activities intended to improve traffic safety. The following focuses on three driver-oriented programs administered by NHTSA…