United States Has Highest Car Crash Fatality Rate

August 10 , 2016 | Car Accidents

Every year more people in the United States die in car accidents than any other high-income country, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

In 2013, greater than 32,000 people died on roadways in the United States. This is an average of 90 car crash fatalities a day.

Over the past 13 years, the United States has experienced a 31% reduction in its motor vehicle death rate per capita. While this is an improvement, compared with 19 other wealthy countries, which motor vehicle death rate per capita has decreased an average of 56%, the United States is experiencing the slowest decline.

According to the CDC, if the United Staes had reduced its death rate to the average of other countries, 18,000 more lives would have been saved.

This is not the only area the United States ranks poorly in. The United States ranks first in accident fatalities per 100,000 people and per 10,000 registered vehicles. The United States ranks as second-highest in fatalities involving alcohol. Also, the United States is third-lowest in national front seatbelt use.

To reduce the number of automobile accident fatalities the CDC makes some recommendations:

  • Always wear a seatbelt
  • Make sure children’s car seats are properly installed
  • Never drive when impaired by alcohol or other substances
  • Obey the speed limit
  • Do not drive distracted

Together, by following these recommendations and practicing safe driving techniques, we can make the roadways a safer place.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an automobile accident, contact Martin Law Office for a free consultation.