Health Costs and Transportation

A new publication, The Hidden Health Costs of Transportation, addresses how our transportation system contributes to our rising health costs and improving public health.

U.S. traffic fatalities and injuries are high on the list. One projection showed that in 2009 there were roughly 33,963 people that died in traffic crashes. That's only 1,783 more than the population of the City of Florence in 2009! The American Automobile Association stated that the costs of traffic crashes is $164.2 billion each year which is about $1,051 per person annually. Some hidden costs of transportation are physical inactivity, rising asthma and obesity rates, and poor air quality.

The design of transportation within the communities could be improved to introduce walking, bicycling and transit which contibute to physical activity. The American Public Health Association supports access to safe sidewalks, streets and playgrounds, health services and jobs.

The Hidden Costs of Transportation publication will be a recommending source for future transportation policy and investment.