This is the moment a lot of traffic safety advocates have been waiting for: the AP Style Guide, purveyors of rules and regulations to journalists and other, has taken a side in the debate about the word "accident."
The Twitter account of the AP Stylebook recently released a proclamation that has been a long time in the works for some transportation safety accident.
When negligence is claimed or proven, avoid accident, which can be read as exonerating the person responsible. #ACES2016
— AP Stylebook (@APStylebook) April 2, 2016
Instead, use crash, collision or other terms. #ACES2016
— AP Stylebook (@APStylebook) April 2, 2016
The retweets and mentions inspired by these tweets are also recommended reading for evidence of the passions and opinions that preceded the momentous announcement. It is important to note that the recommendation falls short of a full prescription to use the words "crash" or "collision" rather than "accident"—and it remains to be seen how many occasions will actually fit the description presented here by the AP Stylebook.
For more on debate on Twitter, see also #CrashNotAccident.
FULL STORY: AP Stylebook Tweet
How Tulsa Beat Flooding Without Saying 'Climate Change'
An oil town in a red state proves we don't have to talk about climate change to adapt to it.
Defining Key Zoning Code Terms for the Masses
What it means when planners use their words.
'Define Each and Every Acronym'
A participant in some of Seattle's most consequential planning processes puts out a call for a more inclusive use of language.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”
The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).
The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns
In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.
The States Losing Rural Delivery Rooms at an Alarming Pace
In some states, as few as 9% of rural hospitals still deliver babies. As a result, rising pre-term births, no adequate pre-term care and harrowing close calls are a growing reality.
The Small South Asian Republic Going all in on EVs
Thanks to one simple policy change less than five years ago, 65% of new cars in this Himalayan country are now electric.
DC Backpedals on Bike Lane Protection, Swaps Barriers for Paint
Citing aesthetic concerns, the city is removing the concrete barriers and flexposts that once separated Arizona Avenue cyclists from motor vehicles.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Smith Gee Studio
City of Charlotte
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)