The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has shared estimates for traffic fatalities for 2023 and revealed that, for a second year, traffic fatalities have dropped. However, traffic fatalities remain high at just under 41,000 for 2023. As the number of New York residents driving increases, there is concern about traffic accidents increasing as well even if the fatalities continue to decrease.
When it comes to fatalities involving car accidents, about 20% of those killed are not in the cars themselves. These fatalities include pedestrians, bike riders and others who are often the victims of distracted driving.
The change over the last few years
In 2021, traffic accident fatalities increased significantly, with a 10.5% jump from 2020. This was attributed to increased driving that year. However, the increase generated concerns as 2021 recorded the highest number of fatalities since 2005 and the largest increase in percentage since 1975. After peaking in 2021, traffic accident fatalities decreased even as the number of people driving increased.
Causes of fatal traffic accidents
According to authorities, there are several causes for fatal car accidents. These include:
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
Distracted driving
Distracted driving continues to be a major concern as people can get distracted for many reasons while driving. Some people might be distracted by their music or by focusing on a conversation in the vehicle, yet the biggest worry is distracted driving caused by cellphone use, which is a factor in many accidents resulting in injuries and fatalities.
Even with the decrease in car accident fatalities, the high number of them is still a concern. If your loved one has been a fatal victim of a car accident, you might find yourself gathering evidence as to the cause of the accident, which might include distracted driving.