Driving statistics from the early days of the Coronavirus pandemic show that motor vehicle deaths increased during this period in New York and across the United States, even though drivers used their cars less. These collisions resulted in the highest highway death toll in the country since 2007, with statistics also showing an increase in injuries.
Fewer accidents but worse outcomes
Statistics from a U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report indicate an alarming trend in 2019-2020. Even though the total number of accidents had decreased due to drivers using their vehicles less, the percentage of severe motor vehicle accidents increased with more incidents resulting in deaths or traumatic injury. The fatality rate per one million miles traveled increased in 2020 to 1.34, a 21% increase from 2019.
Risky behaviors account for the increase
The report also noted that risky behaviors, like speeding, substance abuse or not wearing a seat belt, account for 45% of crashes. Other alarming statistics include:
- A 14% increase in deaths involving drunken driving
- Motorcyclist deaths rose to their highest number since 1975, increasing 11%
- Bicyclist death increased by 9%, the highest since 1987
Negligence often causes motor vehicle accidents
Many vehicular accidents involving severe personal injury or death occur because of negligence on the part of one or more drivers. When drivers or their passengers sustain injuries because of other drivers’ risky behaviors or negligence, they may be eligible for compensation to pay for their medical treatment, therapies, loss of wages, living expenses, and more.
Even minor injuries may be eligible for compensation. After sustaining an injury in a motor vehicle accident, victims should get medical attention first to back up their claim. Proper documentation is essential in pursuing a successful motor vehicle injury lawsuit.