A Safe System approach focuses on the most high-impact, effective strategies to reduce injuries and deaths, rather than focusing on perfecting individual human behavior. Safety is achieved through resilient, overlapping systems supported by active participation across government and industry.

Drawing from public health and occupational safety principles, a Safe System approach requires coordination and commitment from professionals across multiple disciplines, including street design, vehicle design, and emergency care.

Within a Safe System approach, local transportation agencies focus on street design and speed management. City transportation practitioners can change how the transportation system is designed by adopting safety-first design standards and policies and by making systemic changes to city-owned streets. Transportation agencies can also foster a culture of safety through community engagement and programming. They can lead by example by procuring safer fleet vehicles and advocating that other city agencies do the same.

To help cities put a Safe System approach into practice, NACTO provides resources, guidance, and examples as member cities work to:

Redesign streets for safety: Street design should encourage safer behaviors and provide ample, protected space to walk, bike, and roll.
Set safer speed limits: Through street design and lower speed limits, we reduce the likelihood of injury or death from traffic crashes.
Improve the design of vehicles: Motor vehicle technology and design play a crucial role in minimizing the risk of a fatal crash.

In 2026, the Federal Highway Administration pared down its list of proven safety countermeasures: tools and strategies backed by research to save lives. NACTO archived the original resources on roadway reconfigurations, bike lanes, appropriate speed limits, speed safety cameras, and variable speed limits. Access the archive here.