Serious injuries in non-fatal accidents are on the decline
According to a May 2008 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of serious injuries in accidents that did not result in death has declined over the past decade. Despite an increase in the number of cars on the road and miles traveled, the number of non-fatal injuries decreased by over 20%.
The report examines data involving the rate of non-fatal car accidents between 1996 and 2005. The number of “Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)” increased by 20% in the United States over the ten year period. However, the number of serious injuries dropped and the number of incapacitating injuries, which were the most serious kind of non-fatal injury listed, dropped by 25%.
Three different sources of data were used to collect the crash statistics: the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS); National Automotive Sampling System General Estimates System (GES); and State Data Systems (SDS). Since each of the systems used collect different data, the results varied. However, every statistic pointed to a reduced number of incapacitating injuries on U.S. roads.
Prior to 2003, incapacitating injuries were the most common outcome of non-fatal accidents. They are defined as the “most severe injury which prevents the injured person from walking, driving or performing in the same capacity as before the accident.”
Overall, the report indicates that increased automobile safety, seatbelt use, driver education and drunk driving arrests have helped making driving a safer experience.
Some of the car accident statistics found in the report according to the GES:
- Non-Fatal Traffic Injuries: Decreased 22.5%
- People Injured Per 100 Million Vehicle Miles Traveled: Decreased 35.6%
- Incapacitating Injuries: Decreased 25%
- Non-Incapacitating Injuries: Decreased 18%
- Possible Injuries (Least Serious): Decreased 19%
AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS
Eric Saiontz is a Maryland accident lawyer who represents individuals injured in collisions caused by another driver’s negligence. To review a potential case with an accident attorney, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.
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