My 18 year old little brother's life was tragically cut short due to an accident on an unsafe, under-lit backroad. He was set to graduate high school come January and continue on his dreams of being a mechanic and opening a shop. Stories like his are tragically common, and it's clear that we need urgent change. As per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) data, nearly 50% of all fatal crashes in the United States happen at night, with a fatality rate per mile of travel about three times higher at night than during the day. It's a devastating statistic that has personal significance for my family and me, and it must be significantly reduced. Therefore, we are calling for mandated safety measures on all hazardous backroads.

These safety measures include the installation of street lights and guardrails where there are existing dangers such as telephone poles, steep drops, and other hazards. These enhancements would massively increase safety, preventing future tragedies. For too long, travelers have been left to navigate dangerous conditions, risking their lives each journey.

This petition is a plea from those who have felt the immense loss from these dangers and those who worry for their travels each day in the absence of necessary safety measures. Please stand with us in urging policymakers to mandate these critical safety measures on all hazardous backroads and save lives. Sign the petition today.