A vehicle accident in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, is caused by several factors, such as speeding and weather. While safe driving technology has reduced accidents, statistics show accidents are still a problem.
General accident statistics
Figures worldwide reveal motor vehicle accidents cause 1.25 million fatalities annually and 38,000 in the U.S. Motorcycle riders, pedestrians, and cyclists account for 54% of victim fatalities and drivers and passengers account for 70%. Around 20 million to 50 million non-fatal accidents occur annually, causing a permanent injury in over 2 million adults.
Driving during rush hour (between 5 pm and 6 pm) and on Saturdays increases the risk of accidents, and night driving causes 33% of fatal accidents. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration found Friday between 3 and 6 p.m. is the riskiest time and day of the week to drive. More fatal accidents happen in rural areas, with 89% occurring in Vermont, with the least occurring in Rhode Island.
Statistics and facts on causes
In 2016, speed played a part in 27% of fatal accidents and 31% of teens killed in accidents in 2018. Figures show drivers drive an average of 10 mph over the limit, which increases accident risk by 9.1%.
Drunk driving causes one-third of vehicle crashes, with fatal crashes occurring every 52 seconds and averaging 29 fatalities daily. Distracted driving, such as mobile phones or eating, accounts for 14% of crashes annually, causing more accidents than drunk driving or speeding. The NHTSA reports 156,000 accidents occur on icy roads and winter is the cause of 17% of accidents.
Even minor accidents can cause serious injuries, requiring medical attention and missed work days. Injured parties may seek damages from at-fault drivers, but they only have limited time to file claims.