After 9/11, fear of flying drove people onto the roads, causing 1,500 extra deaths — over 500% more than the 246 killed on the planes involved in the attacks.

a situation in which no progress is possible; a deadlock or stalemate.

in a manner showing innocent or childlike simplicity; naïvely frank.

aware of or having knowledge of something (British spelling of “cognizant”).

rich and profuse in growth; lush.

cautiousness and prudence; careful consideration of all circumstances and possible consequences.

to attribute something (a result, quality, or cause) to a person or thing.

truthfulness or accuracy; conformity to facts.

peculiar or individual; characteristic of a particular person, group, or thing.

an alignment of three celestial bodies.

the time at which something is most powerful or successful; highest point.