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PUERTO RICO 

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 

Photo Source: 

RSA STEP PR 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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Table of Contents

Disclaimer .............................................................................................................................................3

Protection of Data from Discovery Admission into Evidence .............................................................3

Executive Summary ..............................................................................................................................4

Introduction ...........................................................................................................................................5

Program Structure................................................................................................................................. 5

Program Administration .....................................................................................................................5

Program Methodology .......................................................................................................................7

Project Implementation .......................................................................................................................11

Funds Programmed .........................................................................................................................11

General Listing of Projects ..............................................................................................................13

Safety Performance ............................................................................................................................19

General Highway Safety Trends ......................................................................................................19

Safety Performance Targets............................................................................................................24

Applicability of Special Rules...........................................................................................................27

Evaluation ...........................................................................................................................................28

Program Effectiveness ....................................................................................................................28

Effectiveness of Groupings or Similar Types of Improvements .......................................................28

Project Effectiveness .......................................................................................................................31

Compliance Assessment.....................................................................................................................32

Optional Attachments ..........................................................................................................................35

Glossary ..............................................................................................................................................36
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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Disclaimer

Protection of Data from Discovery Admission into Evidence 

23 U.S.C. 148(h)(4) states “Notwithstanding any other provision of law, reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or 

data compiled or collected for any purpose relating to this section[HSIP], shall not be subject to discovery or 

admitted into evidence in a Federal or State court proceeding or considered for other purposes in any action 

for damages arising from any occurrence at a location identified or addressed in the reports, surveys, 

schedules, lists, or other data. 

23 U.S.C. 148(h)(4) states “Notwithstanding any other provision of law, reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or 

data compiled or collected for any purpose relating to this section[HSIP], shall not be subject to discovery or 

admitted into evidence in a Federal or State court proceeding or considered for other purposes in any action 

for damages arising from any occurrence at a location identified or addressed in the reports, surveys, 

schedules, lists, or other data.23 U.S.C. 409 states “Notwithstanding any other provision of law, reports, 

surveys, schedules, lists, or data compiled or collected for the purpose of identifying, evaluating, or planning 

the safety enhancement of potential accident sites, hazardous roadway conditions, or railway-highway 

crossings, pursuant to sections 130, 144, and 148 of this title or for the purpose of developing any highway 

safety construction improvement project which may be implemented utilizing Federal-aid highway funds shall 

not be subject to discovery or admitted into evidence in a Federal or State court proceeding or considered for 

other purposes in any action for damages arising from any occurrence at a location mentioned or addressed in 

such reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or data.”
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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Executive Summary

The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) is responsible for managing the 25% of federal funds 

allocated for Puerto Rico under the ZP-30 Fiscal Management Information System program code for highway 

safety improvement projects. This program does not have any subprogram. The Strategic Highway Safety Plan 

(SHSP) is a key element of the HSIP in Puerto Rico, being responsible of coordinating with internal and 

external safety stakeholders from all sectors the highway safety initiatives, performance measures, and targets 

for Puerto Rico. 

Puerto Rico developed the first SHSP in 2014, with the support of safety stakeholders from all sectors, Federal 

Highway Administration (FHWA), National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Federal 

Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This 5-year comprehensive plan meets the requirements of the 

federal regulations (23 U.S. Code §?148). The Puerto Rico SHSP targets for 2018 were satisfactory met, as 

certified by FHWA. In 2019, the latest SHSP 2019-2023 was approved and currently under implementation by 

PRHTA, PRTSC, and more than eighty (80) safety stakeholders. It is through this Plan that the main highway 

safety problems and opportunities to achieve the purpose of the HSIP have been identified and analyzed, as 

well as other transportation plans. 

During 2019, $58.3 Million were invested in the Puerto Rico HSIP, considering obligated and carry-overs from 

previous year. Most of this investment was made to upgrade the Interstate and primary roads’ safety 

infrastructure and to made spot improvements on high crash locations. The total number of projects impacted 

by these funds were twenty (20), distributed in twelve (12) highway safety infrastructure improvement projects 

and one (1) service contract. The 65% represented systemic safety improvements projects, including Manual 

for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH) upgrades for metal and concrete barriers, traffic signing, pavement 

markings and raised pavement markers, rumble strips, and others. The other 30% were targeted as hot spot 

approach procedure. The last was the contract for the consultant supporting the SHSP implementation (5%). 

The Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority (PRHTA) performed several crash data analyses to 

identify potential countermeasures in corridors of the Puerto Rico Highway System. In addition, Puerto Rico is 

participating in the Every Day Counts (EDC) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Program with the Safe 

Transportation for Every Pedestrian (STEP) initiative. 

Finally, there is no funds allocated for local or tribal roads. Allocating federal funds to improve highway safety 

through the State highway system had been essential to stop the increase in the number of fatal and injury 

crashes in Puerto Rico. In addition, the PRHTA, together with the Puerto Rico Traffic Safety Commission 

(PRTSC) established the safety performance targets for 2021. These targets were based on the 2019 fatalities 

and serious injuries, and the National Transportation Performance Targets (NTPT) for Highway Safety. PRHTA 

is engaged in updating the next SHSP in 2024.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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Introduction

The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) is a core Federal-aid program with the purpose of achieving 

a significant reduction in fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads. As per 23 U.S.C. 148(h) and 23 CFR 

924.15, States are required to report annually on the progress being made to advance HSIP implementation 

and evaluation efforts. The format of this report is consistent with the HSIP Reporting Guidance dated 

December 29, 2016 and consists of five sections: program structure, progress in implementing highway safety 

improvement projects, progress in achieving safety outcomes and performance targets, effectiveness of the 

improvements and compliance assessment. 

Program Structure

Program Administration 

Describe the general structure of the HSIP in the State. 

The Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority (PRHTA) manages a Highway Safety Improvement 

Program (HSIP) focused on the development of highway safety improvement projects along the entire roadway 

network. As part of this program, PRHTA is implementing a Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) since 2014 

and, currently, the Puerto Rico SHSP 2019-2023. PRHTA uses local and federal funds to implement the SHSP 

and perform highway safety improvement projects. 

Under the title 23 U.S.C. Section 165, Territorial and Puerto Rico Highway Program, Puerto Rico is authorized 

to receive $158,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2016 through 2020. The responsible agency for receiving 

these funds is the PRHTA. From these funds, the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) is responsible 

for managing the 25% under the ZP-30 Fiscal Management Information System program code for highway 

safety improvement projects. Additionally, the PRHTA applies ZP-40 Section 154 Penalty (Open Container 

Requirements) and ZP-50 Section 164 Penalty (Minimum Penalties for Repeated Offenders) funds to HSIP 

eligible activities. 

The project selection is summarized in the following steps: 

 Crash data collection in the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works (PRDTPW). 

 Development of the High Crash Location (HCL) Report. In this report, the PRHTA establishes the list of 

high crash locations by corridors, segments, and intersections. 

 Evaluations of the high crash locations identified to determine the highway safety improvement projects 

to be included in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Those projects are 

divided into systemic or hot spot approach. This evaluation considers the use of funds through to the 

five (5) PRHTA Regions. 

 Selection of consultants for the development of PS&E in compliance with the latest engineering 

standards in Puerto Rico. 

 Inclusion of the highway safety improvement projects in the STIP for the evaluation and approval of the 

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). 

 Bidding and construction processes. 

Where is HSIP staff located within the State DOT? 

 Engineering
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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How are HSIP funds allocated in a State? 

 Other-Allocated Programs 

Describe how local and tribal roads are addressed as part of HSIP. 

In Puerto Rico, local roads are addressed by municipalities. As part of the Strategic Highway Safety Plan 

(SHSP), all crashes are evaluated, and high crash locations are identified along the entire roadway network. If 

local streets resulted as prone to a high number of crashes, the PRHTA is engaged to provide technical 

support, perform Road Safety Audits (RSA), and develop highway safety improvement projects. In addition, the 

municipalities are invited to participate in the Emphasis Areas teams’ meetings. This is very important because 

the meeting participants have the opportunity to receive the most recent crash and fatalities data analysis, 

discuss the main SHSP’s strategies and action plan for the specific period of the year or according to 

increasing safety issues. Municipalities with the most roadway length of high crash locations are informed and 

PRHTA provide them with a municipal deep crash analysis to help them plan their local police mobilizations, 

educational programs, community outreach, emergency medical services, and engineering improvements. If 

there is a safety problem in the local roads, the PRHTA provide technical resources to find countermeasures 

and encourage a reduction in the severe crashes 

Puerto Rico does not have tribal roads, thus is not applicable. 

Identify which internal partners (e.g., State departments of transportation (DOTs) 

Bureaus, Divisions) are involved with HSIP planning. 

 Design 

 Governors Highway Safety Office 

 Local Aid Programs Office/Division 

 Operations 

 Planning 

 Traffic Engineering/Safety 

 Other-Driver Licensing Office (DISCO) 

Describe coordination with internal partners. 

The PRHTA Area Directors continuously held coordination meetings to coordinate the selection and integration 

of their programs using a data driven oriented process. Some of the internal partners are Planning and 

Programming Area, Design Area, and Traffic Engineering and Operations Area, among others. 

Identify which external partners are involved with HSIP planning. 

 Academia/University 

 FHWA 

 Governors Highway Safety Office 

 Law Enforcement Agency 

 Local Government Agency 

 Local Technical Assistance Program 

 Regional Planning Organizations (e.g. MPOs, RPOs, COGs) 

 Other-Non-profit organizations 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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Describe coordination with external partners. 

As part of the Puerto Rico SHSP, the external partners are continuously informed about the SHSP progress, 

and they actively participate in Quarterly Meetings (Emphasis Areas teams meetings), and Road Safety Audits 

(RSA), among other events. Through the Emphasis Areas Teams Meetings (i.e. roadway departure, vulnerable 

road users, intersections, young drivers, alcohol impaired driving, and aggressive driving) these partners 

collaborate in the progress of the Puerto Rico SHSP. In addition, some of them participate in the road safety 

evaluations supporting the decision-making processes of the highway safety improvement projects. The 

development and implementation of the Puerto Rico SHSP is funded through the HSIP. 

The PRHTA (HSIP) coordinates with the Puerto Rico Traffic Safety Commission (PRTSC) and the Automobile 

Accident Compensation Administration (ACAA, by its Spanish Acronym) the crash data used to establish 

performance measures and the data-driven highway safety improvement projects. The PRTSC is responsible 

of managing the Puerto Rico fatalities database through the Planning Area and for the CARE software 

(software created to access and analyze the Puerto Rico crash data) developed by the University of Alabama 

and managed by the Instituto Tercera Mision (San Juan, Puerto Rico). The ACAA provides the number of 

injured people that were transported in an ambulance because of a traffic crash. 

The HSIP promotes the alliance among safety stakeholders by encouraging them, throughout the SHSP, to 

bring together efforts and providing technical references for their studies and activities (i.e. statistical crash 

analysis and profile of pedestrian crashes). 

Describe other aspects of HSIP Administration on which the State would like to 

elaborate. 

The PRHTA continues the methodology for choosing the safety improvement projects combining the PRHTA’s 

crash data, pavement condition data, and bridge data conditions. This methodology includes selecting several 

design consultants, develop PS&E in expedite manner, evaluate the division of projects in phases (as possible) 

to reduce construction time and risk, and promote an aggressive bid program. 

Program Methodology 

Select the programs that are administered under the HSIP.

 HSIP (no subprograms) 

Program: HSIP (no subprograms)

Date of Program Methodology:7/1/2017

What is the justification for this program? 

 Addresses SHSP priority or emphasis area

 FHWA focused approach to safety

What is the funding approach for this program? 

Funding set-aside

What data types were used in the program methodology? 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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Crashes Exposure Roadway 

 All crashes  Traffic

 Lane miles  Functional classification

What project identification methodology was used for this program? 

 Crash frequency

 Other-High Crash Location Report

 Relative severity index

Are local roads (non-state owned and operated) included or addressed in this 

program?

Yes

Are local road projects identified using the same methodology as state roads?

Yes

How are projects under this program advanced for implementation?

 selection committee

Select the processes used to prioritize projects for implementation. For the methods 

selected, indicate the relative importance of each process in project prioritization. 

Enter either the weights or numerical rankings. If weights are entered, the sum must 

equal 100. If ranks are entered, indicate ties by giving both processes the same rank 

and skip the next highest rank (as an example: 1, 2, 2, 4).

Relative Weight in Scoring

Available funding:100

Total Relative Weight:100

What percentage of HSIP funds address systemic improvements? 

 65.0

 HSIP funds are used to address which of the following systemic 

improvements? 

 Add/Upgrade/Modify/Remove Traffic Signal 

 Clear Zone Improvements 

 Horizontal curve signs 

 Install/Improve Pavement Marking and/or Delineation 

 Install/Improve Signing 

 Rumble Strips 

 Safety Edge 

 Traffic Control Device Rehabilitation 

 Upgrade Guard Rails 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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What process is used to identify potential countermeasures? 

 Crash data analysis 

 Data-driven safety analysis tools (HSM, CMF Clearinghouse, SafetyAnalyst, usRAP) 

 Engineering Study 

 Road Safety Assessment 

 SHSP/Local road safety plan 

 Stakeholder input 

Does the State HSIP consider connected vehicles and ITS technologies? 

Yes 

Describe how the State HSIP considers connected vehicles and ITS technologies. 

The Puerto Rico HSIP considers connected vehicles and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) as 

innovative technologies that will promote a reduction of crashes with its capabilities and performance. If a 

safety project recommends ITS technology as part of the countermeasures proposed, PRHTA will propose the 

use of HSIP funds for the development and implementation of the technology that will promote a reduction of 

crashes with its capabilities and performance (i.e. traffic signal, dynamic message sign, TMC). 

Does the State use the Highway Safety Manual to support HSIP efforts? 

Yes 

Please describe how the State uses the HSM to support HSIP efforts. 

The PRHTA used the HSM as a reference to develop current procedures to determine the high crash 

locations, perform the Before and After studies, and develop the Puerto Rico Crash Modification Factors 

database. The PRHTA methodology for determining the high crash locations (HCL report) includes a Crash 

Cost Factor (CCF) and a Frequency Index (FI), corresponding to the Crash Rate and Severity Index presented 

in the HSM. PRHTA have not been able to use the HSM in the full extends because the KABCO injury 

classification was not implemented and the traffic data was very limited. The crash costs used for determining 

the CCF and for the justification of highway safety improvement projects are those included in the HSM. 

Currently, the process for performing the Before and After studies was based on the process contained in the 

HSM, except for those elements that were limited by the local available data. PRHTA participated in the DataDriven Safety Analysis FHWA Initiative. 

Describe other aspects of the HSIP methodology on which the State would like to 

elaborate.

As part of the methodology of the HSIP, the PRHTA’s SHSP team actively participated in several meetings and 

technical events to integrate the effort among the 4Es of highway safety. One of the main HSIP support to the 

safety stakeholders was related to the Puerto Rico Police digital crash form (PPR-621.4). During 2019, the 

goal of start implementing the digital form was achieved, thus during 2020, Puerto Rico is transitioning to a 

more accurate and modern crash data collection system. This effort will help the PRHTA to perform a faster 

and accurate crash data analysis. Also, the PRHTA had promoted the new SHSP 2019-2023 emphasizing in 

achieving an historical reduction in the percent of pedestrian fatalities of less than 30%. By providing technical 

support to the Puerto Rico Traffic Safety Commission (PRTSC or GHSO), a pedestrian safety task force is 

currently being developed. 

Other activities supported by the HSIP methodology includes following up on the SHSP Action Plan with the 

key safety stakeholders. In addition, the HSIP supports and shares, through the SHSP efforts, the educational 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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campaigns of the PRTSC. In terms of technical activities, PRHTA performed a pedestrian RSA targeted to the 

Spectacular 7 initiatives of STEP.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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Project Implementation

Funds Programmed 

Reporting period for HSIP funding.

Calendar Year

Enter the programmed and obligated funding for each applicable funding category.

FUNDING CATEGORY PROGRAMMED OBLIGATED % 

OBLIGATED/PROGRAMMED

HSIP (23 U.S.C. 148) $33,500,000 $44,891,859 134.01%

HRRR Special Rule (23 

U.S.C. 148(g)(1))

$0 $0 0%

Penalty Funds (23 U.S.C. 

154)

$1,900,000 $6,683,930 351.79%

Penalty Funds (23 U.S.C. 

164)

$1,900,000 $6,736,085 354.53%

RHCP (for HSIP 

purposes) (23 U.S.C. 

130(e)(2))

$0 $0 0%

Other Federal-aid Funds 

(i.e. STBG, NHPP)

$0 $0 0%

State and Local Funds $0 $0 0%

Totals $37,300,000 $58,311,874 156.33%

How much funding is programmed to local (non-state owned and operated) or tribal 

safety projects? 

$0

How much funding is obligated to local or tribal safety projects? 

$0

How much funding is programmed to non-infrastructure safety projects? 

$0

How much funding is obligated to non-infrastructure safety projects?

$70,490

How much funding was transferred in to the HSIP from other core program areas 

during the reporting period under 23 U.S.C. 126?

$0
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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How much funding was transferred out of the HSIP to other core program areas during 

the reporting period under 23 U.S.C. 126?

$0

Discuss impediments to obligating HSIP funds and plans to overcome this challenge in 

the future.

There were no major impediments to obligate the HSIP funds in this period, as observed in Q23.

Describe any other aspects of the State’s progress in implementing HSIP projects on 

which the State would like to elaborate. 

PRHTA is developing a highway safety culture by including highway safety improvement in all projects 

independently of the project scope and the corresponding allocated program. This methodology includes 

selecting several design consultants, develop PS&E in expedite manner, evaluate the division of projects in 

phases (as possible) to reduce construction time and risk, and promoted an aggressive bid program. Also, at 

the end of 2018, Puerto Rico selected the Every Day Counts’ Safe Transportation for Every Pedestrian (STEP) 

initiative to identify countermeasures in order to reduce the pedestrian fatalities due to traffic crashes. This 

action will encourage the PRHTA to evaluate projects aimed at pedestrian facilities as part of the HSIP 

investment.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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General Listing of Projects 

List the projects obligated using HSIP funds for the reporting period. 

PROJECT 

NAME

IMPROVEMEN

T CATEGORY SUBCATEGORY OUTPUTS OUTPUT TYPE

HSIP 

PROJECT 

COST($)

TOTAL 

PROJECT 

COST($)

FUNDING 

CATEGOR

Y

LAND 

USE/ARE

A TYPE

FUNCTIONAL 

CLASSIFICATIO

N

AADT SPEE

D

OWNERSHI

P

METHOD 

FOR SITE 

SELECTIO

N

SHSP 

EMPHASI

S AREA

SHSP 

STRATEGY

AC-200283 - 

PAVEMENT 

REHABILITATIO

N AND SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S HIGHWAY 

PR-2, FROM 

KM. 87.869 TO 

KM. 92.050, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF HATILLOCAMUY

Roadway 

delineation

Raised pavement markers 3 Miles $1735265.4

0

$13079000 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialInterstate37,225 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-200306 - 

PAVEMENT 

REHABILITATIO

N AND SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S HIGHWAY 

PR-2, FROM 

KM. 92.05 TO 

KM. 95.90, 

MUNICIPALITY 

OF CAMUY

Roadway 

delineation

Raised pavement markers 2 Miles $803227.7 $4133914.40 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialInterstate37,667 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-200307 - 

PAVEMENT 

REHABILITATIO

N AND SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S HIGHWAY 

PR-2, FROM 

KM. 95.90 TO 

KM. 100.06, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF CAMUYQUEBRADILLA

S

Roadway 

delineation

Raised pavement markers 3 Miles $864106.1 $4824371.20 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialInterstate32,650 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-301127 - 

Pedestrian 

Bridge and 

Geometrical 

Improvements at 

PR-3 from K.m. 

9.0 to Km. 

10.155 Carolina

Pedestrians 

and bicyclists

Pedestrian bridge 1 Crossovers $699579.25 $699579.25 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialOther Freeways 

& Expressways

45,200 State 

Highway 

Agency

Spot Pedestrian

s

Improve the 

highway 

infrastructure to 

accommodate 

people who are 

walking.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

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PROJECT 

NAME

IMPROVEMEN

T CATEGORY SUBCATEGORY OUTPUTS OUTPUT TYPE

HSIP 

PROJECT 

COST($)

TOTAL 

PROJECT 

COST($)

FUNDING 

CATEGOR

Y

LAND 

USE/ARE

A TYPE

FUNCTIONAL 

CLASSIFICATIO

N

AADT SPEE

D

OWNERSHI

P

METHOD 

FOR SITE 

SELECTIO

N

SHSP 

EMPHASI

S AREA

SHSP 

STRATEGY

AC-001206 - 

Safety 

Improvements 

PR-12, 

Kilometers: 0.00 

to 6.4, Ponce

Intersection 

traffic control

Systemic improvements - 

signal-controlled

4 Miles $12045687.

5

$12318802.1

0

HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialOther Freeways 

& Expressways

25,900 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-002907 - 

GEOMETRIC 

IMPROVEMENT

S AT HIGHWAY 

PR-29 AND PR168 

INTERCHANGE 

FROM KM. 

0.90(29) TO 

1.10(29), 

MUNICIPALITY 

OF BAYAMON

Intersection 

geometry

Intersection geometrics - 

miscellaneous/other/unspecifi

ed

1 Intersection

s

$1099765.7 $1142550.20 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Minor Collector 29,950 State 

Highway 

Agency

Spot Pedestrian

s

Improve the 

highway 

infrastructure to 

accommodate 

people who are 

walking.

AC-800509-

Traffic 

Congestion 

Management 

Project DTL 

Phase II, Unit 2, 

from Station 

15+00.00 to 

Station 30+80.00 

PR-52, 

Municipality of 

Caguas

Advanced 

technology and 

ITS

Congestion detection / traffic 

monitoring system

10 Miles $949576.26 $4846256.38 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialInterstate207,44

0

State 

Highway 

Agency

Spot Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-800556 - 

Safety 

Improvements 

PR-52, 

Kilometers: 95.0 

to 99.0, Ponce

Roadside Barrier- metal 3 Miles $7299526.3

0

$7766877.80 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialInterstate56,900 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-900133 - 

PRESERVATIO

N OF BRIDGES 

NO. 2038 AND 

2039 PR-52, KM. 

49.5 OVER LA 

PALMA CREEK 

AND PR-714 

MUNICIPALITY 

OF SALINAS

Roadside Barrier transitions 8 Locations $65607.50 $6784901.10 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialInterstate36,400 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 15 of 36

PROJECT 

NAME

IMPROVEMEN

T CATEGORY SUBCATEGORY OUTPUTS OUTPUT TYPE

HSIP 

PROJECT 

COST($)

TOTAL 

PROJECT 

COST($)

FUNDING 

CATEGOR

Y

LAND 

USE/ARE

A TYPE

FUNCTIONAL 

CLASSIFICATIO

N

AADT SPEE

D

OWNERSHI

P

METHOD 

FOR SITE 

SELECTIO

N

SHSP 

EMPHASI

S AREA

SHSP 

STRATEGY

AC-520134 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT 

HIGHWAY PR52 PHASE II 

FROM KM. 

52.30 TO 55.30, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF 

GUAYAMASALINAS

Roadside Barrier- metal 33 Miles $4943893.2

4

$4986529.24 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialInterstate34,900 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-800556 - 

PAVEMENT 

REHABILITATIO

N FOR PR-52 

FROM KM. 

38.00 TO 49.00, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF CAYEYSALINAS

Roadside Barrier- metal 7 Miles $4358358.4

0

$15021600.0

0

HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialInterstate32,900 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-005383 - 

Pavement 

Rehabilitation 

and 

Reconstruction 

PR-53, 

Kilometers: 

0.639 to 7.9, 

Fajardo and 

Ceiba

Roadside Barrier- metal 5 Miles $2586610.4

0

$12200100.0

0

HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialInterstate19,800 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-010270 - 

Accelerated 

Highway Safety 

Improvements, 

Program, 

Highway PR102, Municipality 

of Cabo Rojo

Roadside Barrier- metal 10 Miles $59556.20 $59556.20 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialOther11,227 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-990154 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT 

PR-115 FROM 

KM. 0.00 TO 

KM.10.84, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF AÑASCO - 

RINCON

Pedestrians 

and bicyclists

Miscellaneous pedestrians 

and bicyclists

7 Miles $4876314.1

0

$6583943.30 Penalty 

Funds (23 

U.S.C. 154)

Urban Minor Arterial 11,664 State 

Highway 

Agency

Spot Pedestrian

s

Improve the 

highway 

infrastructure to 

accommodate 

people who are 

walking.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 16 of 36

PROJECT 

NAME

IMPROVEMEN

T CATEGORY SUBCATEGORY OUTPUTS OUTPUT TYPE

HSIP 

PROJECT 

COST($)

TOTAL 

PROJECT 

COST($)

FUNDING 

CATEGOR

Y

LAND 

USE/ARE

A TYPE

FUNCTIONAL 

CLASSIFICATIO

N

AADT SPEE

D

OWNERSHI

P

METHOD 

FOR SITE 

SELECTIO

N

SHSP 

EMPHASI

S AREA

SHSP 

STRATEGY

AC-011534 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-115 FROM 

KM. 10.84 TO 

KM. 20.4, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF RINCON - 

AGUADA

Pedestrians 

and bicyclists

Miscellaneous pedestrians 

and bicyclists

6 Miles $998073.59 $2915000.00 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Minor Arterial 11,664 State 

Highway 

Agency

Spot Pedestrian

s

Improve the 

highway 

infrastructure to 

accommodate 

people who are 

walking.

AC-011534 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-115 FROM 

KM. 10.84 TO 

KM. 20.4, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF RINCON - 

AGUADA

Pedestrians 

and bicyclists

Miscellaneous pedestrians 

and bicyclists

6 Miles $1249107.4

5

$2915000.00 Penalty 

Funds (23 

U.S.C. 154)

Urban Minor Arterial 11,664 State 

Highway 

Agency

Spot Pedestrian

s

Improve the 

highway 

infrastructure to 

accommodate 

people who are 

walking.

AC-011630- 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-116 FROM 

KM. 3.00 TO 

14.00, 

MUNICIPALITY 

OF LAJAS

Pedestrians 

and bicyclists

Miscellaneous pedestrians 

and bicyclists

7 Miles $3744000.0

0

$6744000.00 Penalty 

Funds (23 

U.S.C. 164)

Urban Principal ArterialOther

7,267 State 

Highway 

Agency

Spot Pedestrian

s

Improve the 

highway 

infrastructure to 

accommodate 

people who are 

walking.

AC-014984 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-149 FROM 

KM. 0.00 TO KM. 

12.8 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF MANATI - 

CIALES

Roadside Roadside - other 7.955251709136

11

Miles $550810.40 $11165013.2

0

Penalty 

Funds (23 

U.S.C. 164)

Rural Principal ArterialOther19,710 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-014984 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-149 FROM 

KM. 0.00 TO KM. 

12.8 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF MANATI - 

CIALES

Roadside Roadside - other 7.955251709136

11

Miles $340086.00 $11165013.2

0

HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialOther19,710 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 17 of 36

PROJECT 

NAME

IMPROVEMEN

T CATEGORY SUBCATEGORY OUTPUTS OUTPUT TYPE

HSIP 

PROJECT 

COST($)

TOTAL 

PROJECT 

COST($)

FUNDING 

CATEGOR

Y

LAND 

USE/ARE

A TYPE

FUNCTIONAL 

CLASSIFICATIO

N

AADT SPEE

D

OWNERSHI

P

METHOD 

FOR SITE 

SELECTIO

N

SHSP 

EMPHASI

S AREA

SHSP 

STRATEGY

AC-014984 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-149 FROM 

KM. 0.00 TO KM. 

12.8 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF MANATI - 

CIALES

Roadside Roadside - other 7.955251709136

11

Miles $3670432.7

0

$11165013.2

0

HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Rural Principal ArterialOther19,710 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-014984 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-149 FROM 

KM. 0.00 TO KM. 

12.8 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF MANATI - 

CIALES

Roadside Roadside - other 8 Miles $2441274.6

0

$11165013.2

0

Penalty 

Funds (23 

U.S.C. 164)

Rural Principal ArterialOther19,710 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-016789 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-167 FROM 

KM. 0.0 TO KM. 

9.0, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF 

COMERIONARANJITOBAYAMON

Roadway 

delineation

Raised pavement markers 6 Miles $96545.50 $4400000.00 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialOther6,800 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-016789 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-167 FROM 

KM. 0.0 TO KM. 

9.0, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF 

COMERIONARANJITOBAYAMON

Roadway 

delineation

Raised pavement markers 6 Miles $29562.01 $4400000.00 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialOther6,800 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-016789 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-167 FROM 

Roadway 

delineation

Raised pavement markers 6 Miles $558508.38 $4400000.00 Penalty 

Funds (23 

U.S.C. 154)

Urban Principal ArterialOther6,800 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 18 of 36

PROJECT 

NAME

IMPROVEMEN

T CATEGORY SUBCATEGORY OUTPUTS OUTPUT TYPE

HSIP 

PROJECT 

COST($)

TOTAL 

PROJECT 

COST($)

FUNDING 

CATEGOR

Y

LAND 

USE/ARE

A TYPE

FUNCTIONAL 

CLASSIFICATIO

N

AADT SPEE

D

OWNERSHI

P

METHOD 

FOR SITE 

SELECTIO

N

SHSP 

EMPHASI

S AREA

SHSP 

STRATEGY

KM. 0.0 TO KM. 

9.0, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF 

COMERIONARANJITOBAYAMON

and pavement 

condition.

AC-016789 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-167 FROM 

KM. 0.0 TO KM. 

9.0, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF 

COMERIONARANJITOBAYAMON

Roadway 

delineation

Raised pavement markers 6 Miles $875549.25 $4400000.00 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialOther6,800 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-016789 - 

HIGHWAY 

SAFETY 

IMPROVEMENT

S PR-167 FROM 

KM. 0.0 TO KM. 

9.0, 

MUNICIPALITIE

S OF 

COMERIONARANJITOBAYAMON

Roadway 

delineation

Raised pavement markers 6 Miles $1110965.4

5

$4400000.00 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialOther6,800 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

Highway Safety 

Improvements 

PR-173, Km. 0.0 

to Km. 9.0 

Municipalities of 

Cidra - Aibonito

Roadside 6 Miles $189394.15 $257745.95 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

Urban Principal ArterialOther8,975 State 

Highway 

Agency

Systemic Roadway 

Departure

Implement 

engineering 

countermeasur

es to improve 

lane delineation 

and pavement 

condition.

AC-800568 -

RFP for 

Consultant 

Services for 

Puerto Rico 

Strategic 

Highway Safety 

Plan (SHSP)

Noninfrastructure Transportation safety 

planning

1 Service 

Contract

$70490.46 $70490.46 HSIP (23 

U.S.C. 148)

N/A N/A 0 State 

Highway 

Agency

RFP Pedestrian

s

N/A
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 19 of 36

Safety Performance

General Highway Safety Trends 

Present data showing the general highway safety trends in the State for the past five 

years. 

PERFORMANCE 

MEASURES 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Fatalities 361 366 344 304 310 279 290 308 289

Serious Injuries 6,449 5,551 3,705 4,040 4,199 4,267 3,024 4,290 5,377

Fatality rate (per 

HMVMT)

1.940 1.970 1.850 2.090 2.130 1.920 1.930 1.950 1.968

Serious injury rate (per 

HMVMT)

34.657 29.878 19.925 27.775 28.851 29.298 20.147 28.562 36.610

Number nonmotorized fatalities118 128 98 107 112 98 108 125 109

Number of nonmotorized serious 

injuries

864 631 431 478 400 369 248 418 662
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 20 of 36

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Annual Fatalities

Fatalities 5 Year Rolling Avg.

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Annual Serious Injuries

Serious Injuries 5 Year Rolling Avg.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 21 of 36

1.7

1.75

1.8

1.85

1.9

1.95

2

2.05

2.1

2.15

2.2

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Fatality rate (per HMVMT)

Fatality rate (per HMVMT) 5 Year Rolling Avg.

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Serious injury rate (per HMVMT)

Serious injury rate (per HMVMT) 5 Year Rolling Avg.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 22 of 36

Describe fatality data source. 

FARS

To the maximum extent possible, present this data by functional classification and 

ownership. 

Year 2019

Functional 

Classification

Number of Fatalities

(5-yr avg)

Number of Serious 

Injuries

(5-yr avg)

Fatality Rate

(per HMVMT)

(5-yr avg)

Serious Injury Rate

 (per HMVMT)

(5-yr avg)

Rural Principal 

Arterial (RPA) - 

Interstate

0 0 0 0

Rural Principal 

Arterial (RPA) - Other 

Freeways and 

Expressways

Rural Principal 

Arterial (RPA) - Other

Rural Minor Arterial

Rural Minor Collector

Rural Major Collector

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Non Motorized Fatalities and Serious Injuries

Fatalities Serious Injuries 5 Year Rolling Avg.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 23 of 36

Functional 

Classification

Number of Fatalities

(5-yr avg)

Number of Serious 

Injuries

(5-yr avg)

Fatality Rate

(per HMVMT)

(5-yr avg)

Serious Injury Rate

 (per HMVMT)

(5-yr avg)

Rural Local Road or 

Street

Urban Principal 

Arterial (UPA) - 

Interstate

Urban Principal 

Arterial (UPA) - Other 

Freeways and 

Expressways

Urban Principal 

Arterial (UPA) - Other

Urban Minor Arterial

Urban Minor Collector

Urban Major Collector

Urban Local Road or 

Street
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 24 of 36

Year 2019

Roadways Number of Fatalities

(5-yr avg)

Number of Serious 

Injuries

(5-yr avg)

Fatality Rate

(per HMVMT)

(5-yr avg)

Serious Injury Rate

 (per HMVMT)

(5-yr avg)

State Highway 

Agency

295.2 4,231.4 1.86 26.71

County Highway 

Agency

Town or Township 

Highway Agency

City or Municipal 

Highway Agency

State Park, Forest, or 

Reservation Agency

Local Park, Forest or 

Reservation Agency

Other State Agency

Other Local Agency

Private (Other than 

Railroad)

Railroad

State Toll Authority

Local Toll Authority

Other Public 

Instrumentality (e.g. 

Airport, School, 

University)

Indian Tribe Nation

Provide additional discussion related to general highway safety trends. 

PRHTA revised the roadway length units for the HPMS data sets from 2015 to 2017 and submit the vehicles 

miles traveled for those years in 2020 

Safety Performance Targets 

Safety Performance Targets 

Calendar Year 2021 Targets *

Number of Fatalities:288.2
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 25 of 36

Describe the basis for established target, including how it supports SHSP goals.

The database used to forecast the number of fatalities was the Puerto Rico FARS. The years considered 

during the analysis were from 2012 to 2019. To obtain the safety performance target of the number of fatalities 

for 2021, several trendline options were evaluated (i.e. exponential, linear, logarithmic, polynomial, and power). 

After having selected a logarithmic trendline of y=-37.41ln(x)+360.84, with an R2=79.19%, the forecast of the 

number of fatalities for 2021 is 275. This represents a reduction of 10.71% from 2018 to 2021. Thus, the 5-year 

moving average safety performance target is 288.2 for 2021.

Number of Serious Injuries:4688.6

Describe the basis for established target, including how it supports SHSP goals.

The database used to forecast the number of serious injuries was the Automobile Accident Compensation 

Administration (ACAA, by its Spanish acronym). The years considered during the analysis were from 2007 to 

2019. To obtain the safety performance target of the number of serious injuries, it was analyzed several 

trendline options (i.e. exponential, linear, logarithmic, polynomial, and power) to forecast the 2021 serious 

injuries. After having selected a polynomial (2 degree) trendline of y = 59.37x2 - 1165.2x + 9773.9, with an 

R2=86.47%, the forecast of the number of serious injuries for 2021 is 5,655. Thus, the 5-year moving average 

safety performance target is 4,688.55 for 2021.

Fatality Rate:1.915

Describe the basis for established target, including how it supports SHSP goals.

The databases used to forecast the fatality rate were from the Puerto Rico FARS Database and the values of 

the Hundred Million Vehicle Miles Traveled (HMVMT) reported by the Puerto Rico Highways and 

Transportation Authority. The years considered during the analysis were from 2012 to 2019, for the Puerto 

Rico FARS Database, and from 2008 to 2019, for the HMVMT. The fatality rate forecast was based on the 

forecasted number of fatalities and HMVMT for 2021. Also, it was analyzed several trendline options (i.e. 

exponential, linear, logarithmic, polynomial, and power) to forecast the 2021 fatality rate. After having selected 

a logarithmic trendline of y=-37.41ln(x)+360.84, with a R2=79.19% for the number of fatalities, a logarithmic 

trendline of y=-22.87ln(x)+203.79, with a R2=75.5% for the HMVMT, the 2021 fatality rate was forecasted to 

1.808. This represents a reduction of 11.84% from 2018 to 2021. Thus, the 5-year moving average safety 

performance target is 1.915 for 2021.

Serious Injury Rate:28.368

Describe the basis for established target, including how it supports SHSP goals.

The databases used to forecast the serious injuries rate were from the Automobile Accident Compensation 

Administration (ACAA, by its Spanish acronym) and the values of the Hundred Million Vehicle Miles Traveled 

(HMVMT) reported by the Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority. The years considered during 

the analysis were from 2007 to 2019, for the ACAA Database, and from 2008 to 2019, for the HMVMT. The 

Serious Injury rate forecast was based on the forecasted number of people transported in ambulance from the 

crash scene, using the 5-year moving average, and HMVMT for 2021. Also, it was analyzed several trendline 

options (i.e. exponential, linear, logarithmic, polynomial, and power) to forecast the 2021 Serious Injury rate. 

After having selected a polynomial (2 degree) trendline of y = 59.692x2 - 984.49x + 8091.3 with an R2 = 0.9848 

for the 5-yr moving average of serious injuries, a logarithmic trendline of y=-22.87ln(x)+203.79, with a 

R2=75.5% for the HMVMT, the 2021 Serious Injury rate was forecasted to 28.298. Thus, the 5-year moving 

average safety performance target is 28.368 for 2021.

Total Number of Non-Motorized Fatalities and Serious Injuries:518.2

Describe the basis for established target, including how it supports SHSP goals.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 26 of 36

The 5-year moving average of non-motorized fatalities and serious injuries was determined combining the 

forecasting numbers of annual pedestrian fatalities (86), bicyclist fatalities (8), and non-motorized serious 

injuries (428). Having forecasting 2020 and 2021 annual numbers for each of these categories (as described 

herein), PRHTA estimated a 5-year moving average of non-motorized fatalities and serious injuries of 518.2. 

This, since the best statistical regressions were found individually and not analyzing the combined data. The 

database used to forecast the number of pedestrian fatalities was the Puerto Rico FARS Database. After 

having selected a logarithmic trendline of y=-6.389ln(x)+109.72, with an R2= 69.94%, the 2021 forecast for the 

5-year moving average of pedestrian fatalities is 95.0. This represents a reduction of 4.8% from 2018 to 

2021.The database used to forecast the number of bicyclists’ fatalities was the Puerto Rico FARS Database. 

After selecting a logarithmic trendline of y=-1.828ln(x)+13.973, with an R2 = 87.83%, the 2021 forecast for the 

5-year moving average of cyclist fatalities is 9.8. This represents a reduction of 4.3% from 2018 to 2021. In the 

other hand, the number of pedestrian and bicyclist serious injuries (SI) was analyzed using the 2012-2019 

ACAA transported by ambulance data, where a polynomial (2nd grade) regression was selected (y= 5.4221x2 

- 91.736x + 777.68, R2 = 96.41%). The 2021 forecast for the 5-year moving average of pedestrian and 

bicyclists’ serious injuries is 401.1.

Describe efforts to coordinate with other stakeholders (e.g. MPOs, SHSO) to establish 

safety performance targets. 

During this reporting period, the PRHTA Safety Division Manager, together with the PRTSC Federal Program 

Manager defined the safety performance targets for 2021. This, according to 2023 SHSP targets. This 

coordination consisted in several meetings during 2020 first two quarters (January-May 2020), where technical 

personnel of the PRHTA, the Puerto Rico SHSP and the PRTSC analyzed the trends and forecasts for each 

one of the safety performances targets. The 2020 targets were discussed and approved by the Metropolitan 

Planning Organizations (MPO), as required by FHWA Rule (23 CFR 490). PRHTA will coordinate the approval 

of the 2021 safety performance targets with the MPO before February 2021. 

Does the State want to report additional optional targets? 

No

Not Applicable.

Describe progress toward meeting the State’s 2019 Safety Performance Targets (based 

on data available at the time of reporting). For each target, include a discussion of any 

reasons for differences in the actual outcomes and targets.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES TARGETS ACTUALS

Number of Fatalities 285.8 295.2

Number of Serious Injuries 3822.0 4231.4

Fatality Rate 1.786 1.855

Serious Injury Rate 22.269 28.694

Non-Motorized Fatalities and 

Serious Injuries

453.0 530.0

During 2019, none of the safety targets were met. In average, there was a difference of 19.9% between the 

targets and the actual numbers. Year 2019 was an historical year for Puerto Rico representing instability due to 

protests, changes of governor, and the effects of bankruptcy. In addition, 2019 represented the beginning of 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 27 of 36

the construction of several projects postponed due to hurricanes Irma and María in 2017. In general, the failure 

meeting the established targets could be related to the population instability during 2019. In addition, 

establishing safety targets become more difficult since 2017 because of the significant changes in the road 

users’ behavior, infrastructure condition, and key stakeholders’ changes during this period. It seems that new 

trends for highway safety are arising since 2017, after these historical events. 

In terms of the number of fatalities, even when the 2019 SHSP’s Action Plan was satisfactory implemented, a 

remaining 3.3% reduction was not achieved. An increased number of aggressive drivers, the lack of traffic 

signs, damaged traffic signals, some ineffective work zone safety implementation could influence the actual 

numbers. 

The number of serious injuries was reduced slightly, missing the target by 10.7%. Since lots of vehicles were 

lost during hurricane María, it is possible that more drivers bought new or updated cars in the past three years. 

Thus, increased the change of surviving a serious crash due to safer cars designs. In addition, the number of 

police officers have reduced significantly during the last years in Puerto Rico, reducing the enforcement 

mobilization impacts. 

The fatality rate and the serious injury rates were estimated based on HMVMTs reported until 2018. However, 

the PRHTA corrected the units of the HMVMT data from 2015 to 2017. The combined influence of the number 

of fatalities and serious injuries that actually were registered and the changes in the HMVMT affected the 

results. 

Finally, even when the PRTSC made a significant and successful educational campaign for pedestrians and 

bicyclists, there was an unexpected increase in the number of fatalities and serious injuries of non-motorized 

road users: pedestrians and cyclists. The database of people transported in ambulance from the crash scene 

or serious injuries database received was not consistent with previous years data. Thus, PRHTA and PRTSC 

contacted ACAA data administrators to confirm and validate it. At the date of submitting this report, the serious 

injuries data provided by ACAA was not validated nor confirmed. 

Applicability of Special Rules 

Does the HRRR special rule apply to the State for this reporting period? 

No

Provide the number of older driver and pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries 65 

years of age and older for the past seven years. 

PERFORMANCE 

MEASURES 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Number of Older Driver 

and Pedestrian Fatalities

59 49 42 55 76 50 96

Number of Older Driver 

and Pedestrian Serious 

Injuries

449 337 402 457 495 514 624
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 28 of 36

Evaluation

Program Effectiveness 

How does the State measure effectiveness of the HSIP? 

 Other-Comparison in the number of fatalities and serious injuries 

Based on the measures of effectiveness selected previously, describe the results of 

the State's program level evaluations. 

Even when the safety targets for 2019 were not met, the PRHTA worked hard to implement the safety 

improvement projects delayed in the previous years or de-obligated, as well as new projects programmed. The 

number of fatalities targeted was not met by 3.3%, the number of serious injuries by 10.7%, the number of nonmotorized fatalities and serious injuries by 17.0%, and the rates of fatalities and rate of serious injuries by 3.9% 

and 27.6%, respectively. In the other hand, thirty-one (31) projects were implemented to improve highway 

safety elements along the entire roadway system in Puerto Rico. It is our best understanding that, after 

hurricanes Irma and María in 2017, the Puerto Rico historical crash, fatalities, and serious injuries data paths 

changed. Thus, there is a before and after September 20, 2017 in terms of highway safety, as well as other 

impacted areas of the society. That is why PRHTA will perform a special HCLR in 2021 to identify specific 

changes in the pattern of high crash locations in Puerto Rico. 

What other indicators of success does the State use to demonstrate effectiveness and 

success of the Highway Safety Improvement Program? 

 # miles improved by HSIP 

 # RSAs completed 

 HSIP Obligations 

 Increased awareness of safety and data-driven process 

Effectiveness of Groupings or Similar Types of Improvements 

Present and describe trends in SHSP emphasis area performance measures. 

Year 2019

SHSP Emphasis Area Targeted Crash 

Type

Number of 

Fatalities

(5-yr avg)

Number of 

Serious 

Injuries

(5-yr avg)

Fatality Rate

 (per HMVMT)

(5-yr avg)

Serious Injury 

Rate

 (per HMVMT)

(5-yr avg)

Lane Departure All 101.4

Pedestrians All 100.8
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 29 of 36

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

Lane Departure Pedestrians

Fatalities

Number of Fatalities 

5 Year Average

2011-2015 2012-2016 2013-2017 2014-2018 2015-2019

0

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9

1

Lane Departure Pedestrians

Serious Injuries

Number of Serious Injuries 

5 Year Average

2011-2015 2012-2016 2013-2017 2014-2018 2015-2019
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 30 of 36

Intersections and Bicyclists are not Emphasis Areas under the new SHSP 2019-2023. However, they are focus 

groups that are being discussed as part of the Emphasis Area meetings.

0

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9

1

Lane Departure Pedestrians

Fatality Rate

Fatality Rate (per HMVMT) 

5 Year Average

2011-2015 2012-2016 2013-2017 2014-2018 2015-2019

0

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9

1

Lane Departure Pedestrians

Serious Injury Rate

Serious Injury Rate (per HMVMT) 

5 Year Average

2011-2015 2012-2016 2013-2017 2014-2018 2015-2019
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 31 of 36

Project Effectiveness

Provide the following information for previously implemented projects that the State evaluated this reporting period. 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 32 of 36

Compliance Assessment

What date was the State’s current SHSP approved by the Governor or designated State representative?

 07/22/2019

What are the years being covered by the current SHSP? 

From: 2019 To: 2023

When does the State anticipate completing it’s next SHSP update?

 2024

PRHTA anticipates, and already programmed, to upgrade and complete the next SHSP on or before July 31, 2024. 

Provide the current status (percent complete) of MIRE fundamental data elements collection efforts using the table below. 

*Based on Functional Classification (MIRE 1.0 Element Number) [MIRE 2.0 Element Number]

ROAD TYPE *MIRE NAME (MIRE 

NO.)

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - SEGMENT

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - INTERSECTION

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - RAMPS LOCAL PAVED ROADS UNPAVED ROADS

STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE

ROADWAY SEGMENT Segment Identifier 

(12) [12]

100 1.7

Route Number (8) 

[8]

100

Route/Street Name 

(9) [9]

100

Federal Aid/Route 

Type (21) [21]

100

Rural/Urban 

Designation (20) [20]

100 1.7

Surface Type (23) 

[24]

100 1.7

Begin Point 

Segment Descriptor 

(10) [10]

100 1.7

End Point Segment 

Descriptor (11) [11]

100 1.7

Segment Length 

(13) [13]

100

Direction of 

Inventory (18) [18]

100

Functional Class 

(19) [19]

100 1.7
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 33 of 36

ROAD TYPE *MIRE NAME (MIRE 

NO.)

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - SEGMENT

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - INTERSECTION

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - RAMPS LOCAL PAVED ROADS UNPAVED ROADS

STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE

Median Type (54) 

[55]

100

Access Control (22) 

[23]

100

One/Two Way 

Operations (91) [93]

100

Number of Through 

Lanes (31) [32]

100 1.7

Average Annual 

Daily Traffic (79) [81]

100 1.7

AADT Year (80) [82] 100

Type of 

Governmental 

Ownership (4) [4]

100 1.7

INTERSECTION Unique Junction 

Identifier (120) [110]

Location Identifier 

for Road 1 Crossing 

Point (122) [112]

Location Identifier 

for Road 2 Crossing 

Point (123) [113]

Intersection/Junction 

Geometry (126) 

[116]

Intersection/Junction 

Traffic Control (131) 

[131]

AADT for Each 

Intersecting Road 

(79) [81]

AADT Year (80) [82]

Unique Approach 

Identifier (139) [129]

INTERCHANGE/RAMP Unique Interchange 

Identifier (178) [168]

Location Identifier 

for Roadway at 
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 34 of 36

ROAD TYPE *MIRE NAME (MIRE 

NO.)

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - SEGMENT

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - INTERSECTION

NON LOCAL PAVED

ROADS - RAMPS LOCAL PAVED ROADS UNPAVED ROADS

STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE STATE NON-STATE

Beginning of Ramp 

Terminal (197) [187]

Location Identifier 

for Roadway at 

Ending Ramp 

Terminal (201) [191]

Ramp Length (187) 

[177]

Roadway Type at 

Beginning of Ramp 

Terminal (195) [185]

Roadway Type at 

End Ramp Terminal 

(199) [189]

Interchange Type 

(182) [172]

Ramp AADT (191) 

[181]

Year of Ramp AADT 

(192) [182]

Functional Class 

(19) [19]

Type of 

Governmental 

Ownership (4) [4]

Totals (Average Percent Complete): 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.70 0.00 0.00 0.00

*Based on Functional Classification (MIRE 1.0 Element Number) [MIRE 2.0 Element Number]

Describe actions the State will take moving forward to meet the requirement to have complete access to the MIRE fundamental data elements on all public roads by September 30, 2026. 

The PRHTA had perform a series of internal meetings, supported by the FHWA Puerto Rico Division, to implement the MIRE Action Plan 2016 (summarized below) and to structure the Roadway Data System (RDS) Steering Committee. 

This committee was already defined and working hard to meet MIRE and the RDS goals as required. 

 Perform roadway data gaps assessment. 

 Collect vehicle traffic flow data (AADT), and other MIRE FDE, on state (non-local) and local highways, including ramps and intersections. (Consultants) 

 Classify road segments, ramps, and intersections according to their AADT. 

 Develop a roadway data warehouse or database within the PRHTA, including HPMS and MIRE, among others (i.e., MIRE datasets, data sharing protocols, GIS layers for different highway programs, etc.). 

 Integration of the MIRE FDE data sets with other databases (i.e. crash database) 

 Review the MIRE Action Plan according to the information obtained in this meeting and subsequent agreements.
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 35 of 36

Optional Attachments

Program Structure:

Project Implementation:

Safety Performance:

Evaluation:

Compliance Assessment:
2020 Puerto Rico Highway Safety Improvement Program

Page 36 of 36

Glossary

5 year rolling average: means the average of five individuals, consecutive annual points of data 

(e.g. annual fatality rate).

Emphasis area: means a highway safety priority in a State’s SHSP, identified through a data-driven, 

collaborative process.

Highway safety improvement project: means strategies, activities and projects on a public road 

that are consistent with a State strategic highway safety plan and corrects or improves a hazardous 

road location or feature or addresses a highway safety problem.

HMVMT: means hundred million vehicle miles traveled.

Non-infrastructure projects: are projects that do not result in construction. Examples of noninfrastructure projects include road safety audits, transportation safety planning activities, 

improvements in the collection and analysis of data, education and outreach, and enforcement 

activities.

Older driver special rule: applies if traffic fatalities and serious injuries per capita for drivers and 

pedestrians over the age of 65 in a State increases during the most recent 2-year period for which 

data are available, as defined in the Older Driver and Pedestrian Special Rule Interim Guidance 

dated February 13, 2013.

Performance measure: means indicators that enable decision-makers and other stakeholders to 

monitor changes in system condition and performance against established visions, goals, and 

objectives.

Programmed funds: mean those funds that have been programmed in the Statewide Transportation 

Improvement Program (STIP) to be expended on highway safety improvement projects.

Roadway Functional Classification: means the process by which streets and highways are 

grouped into classes, or systems, according to the character of service they are intended to provide.

Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP): means a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary plan, based on 

safety data developed by a State Department of Transportation in accordance with 23 U.S.C. 148.

Systematic: refers to an approach where an agency deploys countermeasures at all locations across 

a system.

Systemic safety improvement: means an improvement that is widely implemented based on high 

risk roadway features that are correlated with specific severe crash types.

Transfer: means, in accordance with provisions of 23 U.S.C. 126, a State may transfer from an 

apportionment under section 104(b) not to exceed 50 percent of the amount apportioned for the fiscal 

year to any other apportionment of the State under that section.