U.S. Auto Accident Fatality Rate At 60–Year Low
Americans are driving at the safest level in years. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the U.S. had its lowest level of traffic fatalities since 1950. In 2009, the fatality rate for vehicles dropped to 1.13 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. The number of deaths from vehicle collision fell 9.2 percent from 2008.
This statistic is particularly impressive considering there are millions of more cars on American roads than in prior decades. Experts credit the decrease to increased seat belt use, drunk driving campaigns, and improved vehicle safety measures. 49 states and the District of Columbia have driver and passenger seat belt laws, with the exception being New Hampshire. However, New Hampshire does have a primary child passenger safety law for those under 18.
States and local municipalities have enacted other vehicle safety measures in recent years, to decrease accidents and generate revenue. Currently 23 states have red light camera programs, where vehicles running through red lights are photographed and ticketed. 12 states and the District of Columbia currently have speed camera programs operating.
Vehicle features such as active–head restraint, anti-lock brakes, side curtain airbags, rear–view camera, daytime running lights, all–wheel drive, and electronic stability control can help make a vehicle safer. These features have also help reduce your car insurance rates. Many car insurance companies offer discounts for these types of safety features. Larger vehicles, such as new SUVs, can also typically better withstand impacts.
Despite these gains, there are still far too many traffic related deaths and injuries. In 2009, more than 30,000 people died and over 2.4 million were injured in vehicle collisions. Hopefully vehicle fatality and injury rates will continue to trend downward.
