Car Accident Statistics
Driving, as we know, can be a very hazardous activity and there are multiple organizations which track driving and car accident statistics, both nationally and in Maryland. Below are some of the more pertinent statistics for 2020 and 2021. There are not yet finalized numbers for 2022.
In 2020, there were 38,680 fatal car accidents throughout the country, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These fatal accidents resulted in a total of 42,060 deaths, which constitutes a reduction from the prior year. However, that clearly appears to be a function of COVID-19 and the commensurate reduction of the number of drivers on the road.
In terms of the most prevalent causes of car accidents across the United States, distracted driving remains the most common and dangerous contributor. Specifically, in 2019, distracted driving was responsible for 8.7% of all fatal accidents, according to the NHTSA. Some other causes of significant and/or fatal car accidents include alcohol, speeding and people driving while fatigued.
Certainly, the NHTSA and other similar organizations throughout the country and Maryland have adopted and implemented various measures to try and reduce the number of fatal car accidents (and accidents in general) along with trying to ensure greater road and traffic safety. Such measures include improvements in the overall roadway infrastructure, new and revised traffic laws and increased police and law enforcement presence on the roadways. But none of these operate as a substitute for individual drivers taking the initiative to be responsible, not just for themselves, but also for their fellow drivers and passengers.