#Death

Three time NASCAR champion Tony Stewart was questioned and released by police in upstate New York yesterday after an on-track incident that killed a rival driver.

By now you probably know that Paul Walker, 40, died last weekend in a car accident in Southern California.

For Ian Cook, there was only one way to remember Allan Simonsen, 34, who died during the 24 Hours at Le Mans last weekend.

A Chinese inspection agency has alleged that Toyota vehicles are responsible for several fatal accidents.  China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine claimed that the Toyota Camry, Prado and Reiz models have faulty brakes and drive shafts. The agency has yet to provide any details pertaining to the accidents , nor casualty information.

The United States Department of Transportation reported that 2010 was a record low for traffic fatalities, besting the previous record of 2009. While that year saw 33,808 deaths, 2010 saw a drop to 32,708.

Both the DOT and NHTSA credit public awareness campaigns and stricter law enforcement, with programs against impaired driving, distracted driving and even pro-seatbelt campaigns being lauded. Undoubtedly, safer vehicles and improved safety systems can also share some of the glory, but either way, we are pleased to see the statistic falling and hope that its a continuing trend in the future.

[Source: NHTSA]