Every day, people throughout the United States are involved in car accidents. Some walk away uninjured. Others require treatment. And unfortunately, some are killed. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute, the number of people killed in car accidents has been declining. Even so, here is a data point to remember: 32,719 people were killed in crashes in 2013.

Surprising Car Accident Statistics to Know

Here are a few additional statistics to consider:

  • Starting in 2008, car accident deaths have been at their lowest level since 1975.
  • Fatality rates per mile traveled have declined rapidly, being cut in half since 1975.
  • Men are more likely than women to die in a motor vehicle accident. This is due to the fact that men drive more miles than women and have the tendency to engage in risky behavior.
  • In 2018, the IIHS’ most updated report, reports that Massachusetts was home to 343 fatal car accidents of which 360 deaths occurred.
  • The most common vehicle involved in a fatal car accident, in the state, is a car, followed by a pickup truck.
  • One-vehicle crashes were the most common in the state, with multiple-vehicle accidents following behind.
  • An estimated 169 of these accidents in the state involved a driver under the influence, with 91% of drivers over the BAC limit of 0.08%.
  • In the state, 82% of drivers wear seatbelts. But, 49%  of these accidents were not using restraints.

The state, as well as the United States, tracks vehicle accidents each year to learn what most commonly causes them. The reports tend to be consistent, with drinking and driving being a common contributor. Additionally, drivers and passengers who do not wear seatbelts tend to experience worse injuries, or even death, from the accident.

What to Do With These Statistics

Why are these statistics important to you? What can you do with this information? Drivers can use this information to learn from other’s mistakes to stay safe on the road. These are just a few tips based on this information:

  • Avoid drinking and driving: Drinking reduces reaction time, which increases the likeliness of being in an accident.
  • Wear a seatbelt always: A seatbelt can protect you and your passengers when you are in an accident.
  • Never get into the vehicle with a drunk driver: It is not only the driver who is affected when someone drives drunk. Avoid getting into a vehicle with a drunk driver.
  • Be aware at all times: While you cannot necessarily prevent all car accidents, the more aware that you are on the road, the more likely you are to spot drunk driving.

If you are injured or a loved one is killed in a car accident, you must learn more about your legal rights. This won’t change what happened, but it could put you in a better place moving forward. Contact us for guidance and advice.