Accident Statistics: Are the Roads Really Safer?

Traveling by road is the primary means of transportation in the United States. Despite a drop in the accident fatality rate in recent years, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for people ages 2 to 34 based on 2005 data, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Why has the fatality rate dropped?
The costs of motor vehicle crashes are huge
Tips to help prevent an accident
Keep focused when you're driving on local roads

Why has the Fatality Rate Dropped? 
The fatality rate has dropped tremendously over the past decade. This can be significantly attributed to the 81% seat belt use nationwide and the 41% reduction in alcohol-related fatal accidents in 2006 (the early 1980s saw 60% of all fatal accidents involving alcohol). But the statistics are still startling.

The Costs of Motor Vehicle Crashes are Huge 
According to the NHTSA:
The economic cost of speeding-related accidents is estimated to be $40.4 billion each year.

• There were 5,973,000 police-reported crashes in 2006, resulting in 2,575,000 injuries and 42,642 deaths.
• An average of 117 people died each day in accidents in 2006, one every 12 minutes.
• Over 1.46 million drivers were arrested in 2006 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This is an arrest rate of 1 for every 139 licensed U.S. drivers.

Tips to Help Prevent an Accident 

• Always wear your seat belt.
• Follow traffic rules and speed limits.
• Avoid distractions and keep your eyes on the road.
• Properly restrain children in child safety seats, booster seats or seat belts based on age and weight recommendations. It's recommended that children age 12 and under sit in the rear seat to avoid the force of a deploying air bag.
• Never drink and drive. It's not just you but other drivers you're putting in danger.

Keep Focused When You're Driving on Local Roads 
Many people believe that speeding accidents are most likely to occur on large highways, Actually, 87% of speeding-related deaths in 2006 occurred on roads that were not interstate highways. Even when you're close to home on the roads you've been driving for years, it's important to still pay attention and be aware of your surroundings.

Remember, when you get behind the wheel, you also have the safety of others in your hands.

If you're a NJ driver who'd like to find out more about affordable car insurance you can count on, call High Point Auto Insurance at 1-800-516-9242 today to get a free quote on a NJ car insurance policy.

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