Early estimates from the NHTSA are in regarding car accident and fatality rates in the United States and they bring relatively good news.
Overall, it is believed that car accident fatalities have decreased slightly nationwide since 2022, even with an increase of average vehicle miles traveled.
The number of miles traveled has increased by 67.5 billion (2.1%), however, it is believed that fatalities have decreased to 1.26 fatalities per 100 million, as compared to 1.33 per 100 million in 2022.
The NHTSA noticed a trend that began with the COVID-19 pandemic, where the fatality rate was on a dramatic incline. This trend continued until there was a slight decrease in 2022, and if the estimates are correct, a greater decrease in 2023. While the overall fatalities have not returned to their pre-pandemic numbers, they seem to be improving.
2023 Georgia Accident Statistics
According to USAA, Georgia ranked 6th for the most distracted drivers for the first half of 2023. Common distractions considered were texting, eating, drinking, or using in-car entertainment systems while driving. Distracted driving can lead to particularly disastrous wrecks, so it is important drivers stay focused on arriving at their destination safely, for others’ sake as well as their own.
According to the NHTSA's estimates, the number of fatalities caused by car wrecks has decreased by 8.8% since 2022, with 1,638 fatalities in 2023. The overall fatality rate has decreased from 1.39% to 1.30% per 100 vehicle miles traveled.
In 2023, Atlanta PD alone reported over 28,000 car accidents, with over 2,000 accidents per month. In the entire state, there were 369,687 car accidents last year.
What Should I Do If I Am in an Accident?
Car accidents are devastating, and unfortunately, not uncommon.
If you are in a car accident, the most important thing is to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not feel severely injured, it is possible that adrenaline is coursing through you, distracting you from the pain. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
Next, you should consider contacting an attorney. If you are injured in an accident, your medical bills are likely much more expensive than you anticipate. Not only will you have to pay for medical treatment, but you are likely in pain, and your vehicle has been damaged.
An experienced car accident attorney can help you recover your finances. Contact Gary Martin Hays & Associates today for a free consultation.
If you suffered an injury due to a car accident, work accident, or other incident caused by someone else’s negligence, contact our Georgia personal injury lawyers today at (770) 934-8000. Consultations are free and confidential.
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