The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently released 2019 traffic fatality data as well as a preview of fatality data for the first half of 2020.
Nationwide, traffic deaths decreased in 2019 when compared to 2018. Deaths related to alcohol-impaired driving decreased to the lowest percentage since this data began being reported in 1982.
In total, there were 36,096 motor vehicle crash fatalities in 2019. This is a decrease of 2% from 2018, although the number of vehicle miles traveled increased by 0.8%. The 2019 fatality rate was 1.10 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, which is the lowest rate since 2014.
NHTSA’s special supplementary report for the first half of 2020 shows a projected increase in the proportion of deaths that occurred:
- In rural areas
- Among individuals aged 16-24 years
- With risky drivers
- In rollovers and ejections
- Among occupants of vehicles that are more than 10 years old
The increased total fatality rate is strongly driven by increased deaths on rural local/collector, arterial, and interstate roadways during the first half of the year, NHTSA reports.
Let’s all do what we can to help decrease the number of traffic fatalities. Avoid distracted driving, don’t drive when impaired by alcohol or other drugs, wear your seatbelt, and keep your vehicle in good repair.
With over 40 years of experience, John Schuerman is a compassionate advocate for injury victims and their families while being an aggressive fighter for justice and full compensation for their claims. If you or a loved one have suffered an injury from a motor vehicle crash, call 1-800-274-0045 today for a free consultation. Evening and weekend appointments as well as home and hospital visits are available.
