The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released estimates on traffic fatalities from 2011. In a decline of 1.7% from 2010, an estimated 32,310 people died in traffic accidents last year. This is the seventh straight year of declining traffic deaths. Over these years, car accident deaths have fallen over 25%. 2011 also saw the fewest deaths per mile driven since the government began keeping records in 1921.
Experts believe there are numerous reasons causing the drop in accident fatalities. Among them, increased vehicle safety standards, cracking down on drunk driving, cracking down on seat belt violations, the economic downturn, and improved vehicle design are all cited as causes for decreased fatalities.
Unfortunately, this nationwide trend did not carry over to California and Arizona, with accident deaths increasing over 3% in 2011. While the numbers continue to improve overall, 32,310 traffic deaths is still an alarming number. By buckling up and driving distraction free, we can still bring this number down.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker today at (800) 333-0000, or send us an email. We’ve helped car accident victims pay their medical bills and receive compensation for injuries for over 30 years. Contact us now for a free consultation.
