NHTSA Reports Decline in Traffic Fatalities for Eighth Consecutive Quarter
The NHTSA estimated 8,650 traffic fatalities in the first quarter of 2024, a 3.2% decrease from 2023. This marks the eighth consecutive quarterly decline. Despite a 0.6% rise in vehicle miles traveled, the death rate fell to 1.13 per 100 million miles, down from 1.18 in 2023. These trends highlight the benefits of safety improvements for commercial fleets. USDOT's 2024 Progress Report on the National Roadway Safety Strategy outlined key 2023 actions, such as awarding $1.7 billion for roadway safety, advancing vehicle safety technologies, proposing impaired-driving prevention standards, updating safety regulations, expanding emergency medical services data support, and adding over 123 organizations as Allies in Action.
Fleet Vehicle Sales Decline in June, But Year-to-Date Figures Show Modest Increase
Fleet vehicle sales in commercial, rental, and government sectors fell in June 2024, resulting in a total of 1,224,644 vehicles sold in the first half of the year, a 2% increase from 2023. However, June sales dropped 8.7% to 198,693 vehicles compared to June 2023. Tom Kontos, chief economist for ADESA Auctions U.S., noted the surprising slowdown, attributing it to better-satisfied fleet demand post-pandemic. Commercial fleet sales declined 4.7%, rental sales dropped 11.2%, and government sales fell 11%. Despite the monthly decline, year-to-date figures suggest a positive outlook for future used vehicle supply.
Ford Recalls Over 500,000 F-150 Trucks for Powertrain Control Module Defect
Ford Motor Co. is recalling 552,188 F-150 trucks in the U.S. due to an issue with the powertrain control module that can cause the vehicle to unintentionally downshift into first gear. This recall affects 2014 Ford F-150 models. The malfunction may result in a sudden downshift, leading to loss of vehicle control and an increased risk of a crash, according to the NHTSA. Ford reported two injuries, 300 warranty claims, 96 field reports, and 124 complaints linked to the defect. The company will update the affected powertrain control modules by the third quarter. Before the downshift occurs, the Malfunction Indicator Light may illuminate. Ford has issued 30 recalls this year, impacting about 3.6 million vehicles. Owner notification letters will be sent starting July 1.