Car Accident Statistics

Car accident statistics tell the story of how dangerous it is on roads and highways, and how the slightest degree of negligence can have catastrophic outcomes. Bennett Johnson, LLP encourages all motorists to take the utmost care when driving, but our firm understands that you cannot control the actions of other drivers. Attorneys Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson in Oakland, CA, are here to help you if third-party negligence results in injury. We invite you to learn more about car accident statistics in order to better understand the importance of taking every possible safety measure on the road.

The Most Common Types of Car Accidents

The most common types of car accidents are:

Rear-end collisions. In some instances, the force of impact is so great that a third car is also involved.
Single-car crashes account for a large number of accidents, which may be caused by something other than driver error. Road conditions, weather, and defective auto parts can all play a part in a single-car accident. Rather than dismiss this type of accident as the fault of the driver, it is best to fully examine the facts so the responsible party can be held accountable.
T-bones and sideswipes occur frequently and can cause catastrophic injuries. The side of a vehicle is less protected than other areas. Not all makes and models include side airbags.
Speeding accidents, from driving either too fast or even too slow.
Head-on collisions, which are usually fatal.
Accidents caused by debris on the roadway, which may be the fault of a trucking company, construction enterprise, or another third party.

The injuries suffered in any type of accident can be life-changing. The party or entity responsible for causing the accident is responsible for paying the costs and expenses associated with the accident.

The National Traffic Safety Institute has found that texting and driving is equally hazardous as driving under the influence.

Fatalities on California Roadways

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in California in 2016, there were more than 3,600 traffic fatalities. More than 1,000 of those fatalities were attributed to driving under the influence of alcohol, and more than 1,000 fatal accidents were attributed to speeding.

Distracted Driving

Today, cell phone use is practically second nature. Unfortunately, the impulse to text, check email, or look up information on a smartphone is one that many motorists entertain while driving. The National Highway Transit Safety Authority found that in 2016, texting while driving resulted in nearly 400,000 injuries. In 2015, texting and driving was found to have caused 3,450 deaths. In fact, the National Traffic Safety Institute has found that texting and driving is equally hazardous as driving under the influence.

Driving Safely

Though the key to safe driving may seem obvious, statistics indicate that you can significantly reduce your risk of causing a car accident by:

Never using your cell phone while driving
Taking care to never exceed the speed limit
Using alcohol responsibly by making certain never to drive while under the influence

Of course, there is no guarantee that all drivers will operate their vehicles with responsibility and care. When the negligence of another motorist causes injury and other losses, our attorneys can help you hold the responsible party accountable and collect the restitution you deserve.