Automobile Accident Statistics
Automobile accidents occur on a daily basis. Even minor accidents can lead to severe injuries and high costs of repair. Below are some helpful statistics about auto accidents that can help you stay informed about the danger and seriousness of them.What Does it Take for There to be an Accident?
Studies have shown that you can suffer neck injuries from accidents that occurred as slow as 5 miles per hour (mph). While people can be injured at this low speed, other studies have shown that most cars will be damaged in accidents at 10 mph or higher. Are Injuries Prevalent Right Away?
No, not all injuries appear at the time of the accident. In other words, symptoms can develop later on. Even though symptoms are delayed, the injury can still be severe. Studies have also shown that symptoms can stay for a long period of time after the accident, for months and even years. Numbers about Auto Accidents
There are many different statistics relating to auto accidents. Here are some of the most important: - According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), there were approximately 6,570,000 automobile accidents in 2002
- These automobile accidents resulted in 42,815 fatalities
- There were 2,925,758 injuries dues to these automobile accidents
- Seatbelts were not worn in 59% of the fatalities
- 82% of the fatalities involved rollovers
- 17,419 of the fatalities were alcohol related
- Statistically speaking, every driver will be involved in 1 automobile accident in his/her lifetime
- 26% of drivers polled were involved in an automobile accident within the last 5 years
- The costs of automobile accidents per year is in the hundreds of billions
- Studies have found that 10% of all automobile accident victims become disabled
Can Anything be Done to Reduce the Likelihood of an Automobile Accident?
Yes, many things can be done. Most automobile accidents occur when the driver is distracted, tired, or drunk. The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration has reported the following figures for how often drivers are distracted by varying activities: - 81% - talking to passengers
- 66% - playing with the radio or CD player
- 49% - eating or drinking
- 25% - on a cellular phone
I've Been Involved in an Automobile Accident, Do I Need a Lawyer?
If you or someone you know is involved in an automobile accident, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced automobile accident lawyer can advise you of your rights and remedies. |
