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Market forces didn't handle those problems because either 1) there was no established market or 2) the problem was institutionalized by government (last 2).

Cars and highways were novel. People wanted them more than they wanted to be sufficiently safe, or fuel-efficient. Volvo is not touting their ultra safe cars because of regulation. The market wants it now. There is a market for that now. It's impossible to prove there would be no market if not for the government regulation. Just look at what we elect to spend on health care. Just look at Tesla and the success of the Prius.

With enough information, people will pay for well-being regardless of government mandates.