A Safer Course: Recapping the ‘Our Roads, Our Safety’ Fair

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) debuted the first ‘Our Roads, Our Safety’ fair on May 8, 2024, a significant event by the agency in efforts to promote road safety and curb fatalities on American roadways. The fair showcased a range of initiatives and technologies dedicated to enhancing transportation safety. Acting Deputy Administrator Sue Lawless underscored the importance of education and outreach in realizing the National Roadway Safety Strategy‘s objectives, reiterating Secretary Buttigieg’s commitment to zero deaths on the nation’s roads. “That strategy continues to serve as the road map for safe driving,” said Lawless in her opening remarks. “It outlines our vision for ensuring America’s transportation system has safer roads, safer people, safer vehicles, safer speeds, and adequate post-crash care.”

Among the participants was the American Bus Association (ABA), which showcased a brand-new 2025 J4500 motorcoach provided by MCI. This vehicle symbolized the industry’s unwavering commitment to safety advancement. Equipped with cutting-edge features like advanced collision avoidance systems and ergonomic seating arrangements, the J4500 epitomized the evolution of transportation technology toward safer practices. Its presence at the fair underscored the strides made within the industry and the collaborative spirit driving progress in road safety.

Lawless emphasized the comprehensive nature of the National Roadway Safety Strategy. The strategy’s multifaceted approach encompasses various pillars, including safer road infrastructure, enhanced driver education and training, vehicle safety standards, speed management initiatives, and post-crash response and care improvements. By addressing these interconnected components, the FMCSA and sister agencies aim to continue fostering a culture of safety and resilience within the transportation ecosystem.

The Acting Deputy Administrator visited each booth and vehicle displayed during the event. At the ABA-provided motorcoach, she talked with MCI’s lead driver Tony Barfield about the J4500 – a brand-new 2025 model from MCI that still had its “new bus smell”- and its safety features, including the advanced collision avoidance system. They also talked about Tony’s longtime history as a bus driver, including his current role as a Dispatch: Transportation Specialist with MCI.

The “Our Roads, Our Safety” fair provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and educate the public about improving road safety nationwide. These gatherings propel progress toward a safer and more resilient transportation landscape through heightened awareness, collaborative efforts, and the promotion of technological advancements.