While Connecticut’s roadways are somewhat safer than the rest of the country, the statistics of car accidents throughout the state point to a necessity to drive more cautiously and attentively. It is the duty of every driver to contribute to a safe environment on roadways statewide.
The Numbers
In 2018, the United States reported 33,654 fatal car accidents, resulting in 36,560 casualties, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This comes to 11.2 deaths per 100,000 and 1.13 deaths per 100 million miles traveled. To compare, Connecticut’s 2018 numbers were:
- Population: 3,572,665
- Millions of miles traveled in a vehicle: 31,596
- Fatal crashes: 276
- Deaths: 294
- Deaths per 100,000 population: 8.2
- Deaths per 100 million miles traveled in a vehicle: .93
- Observed seat belt use: 92%
While the numbers were lower than those evaluating the country as a whole in 2018, Connecticut drivers shouldn’t get too comfortable. 2020’s earliest numbers showed a statewide, and nationwide, increase in vehicle deaths per miles driven.
According to the National Safety Council, despite the beginning of the year’s emptier roadways as a result of COVID-19 cases, March saw a 14% increase in fatality rate per miles driven compared to last year, despite an 8% decrease in roadway deaths. Essentially, roadways were used 18.6% less compared to this time last year, though they’re imposing greater risks for Connecticut drivers.
The NSC went on to note that Connecticut saw the most notable increase in roadway deaths with a 42% increase. The state with the second-biggest leap was Louisiana with a 23% increase. We must act now to end the year on a better, safer note.
How to Improve the Numbers in 2021
Connecticut’s car accident statistics are sobering. Nationwide, our increasing rate of car accidents and vehicle-related fatalities continues to grow as a result of:
- Distracted driving
- Excessive speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Driving while tired
- Driving an unsafe vehicle or in unsafe conditions
With these common causes in mind, Connecticut drivers can reflect on their own driving habits and see where they may be putting themselves and others in a potentially dangerous situation. We must commit to being focused on the road and always adhering to the speed limits and other regulating laws. By addressing the causes of our increasing rate of wrecks, hopefully we can adopt safer driving practices to turn the trend downward in 2021.
Contact the Law Offices of James A. Welcome for help with your car accident case in Connecticut.