U.S. Population Increases, But Rate of Car Accident Deaths Continues to Decline

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on June 14, 2012

The population of the United States has grown steadily since 1975. However, the rate of fatal car accidents since 1975 has steadily gone down, indicating increases in vehicle safety and driver awareness, according to a report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

By 2010, the rate of fatal car accidents per 100,000 U.S. residents had reached an all-time low since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began collecting data in 1975. Overall, the rate of deadly crashes declined 48 percent, from 20.6 deaths per 100,000 people in 1975 to 10.7 deaths per 100,000 people in 2010. Per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, the rate of death was 1.11 in 2010, down from 3.35 in 1975 and representing another historic low.

These numbers include all types of car accident deaths, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and large truck accidents. In 2010, 68 percent of accident deaths were suffered by people riding in a passenger car, truck, van, or SUV. 13 percent of those who lost their lives were pedestrians, and another 13 percent were motorcyclists. Bicyclists made up 2 percent of the lives lost, and occupants of large trucks made up just 1 percent.

Traffic accidents can take lives or cause serious, permanent disabilities. At Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S., our experienced Renton auto accident lawyers are dedicated to helping injured people and families who lost loved ones seek the compensation they need after an accident occurs. To speak to us today, call our office at (888) 228-3860 for a free and confidential case evaluation.