NHTSA Early Estimates Show Record Increase in Fatalities Nationwide 

Nearly 10,000 people died in car crashes in the first quarter of 2022, according to early estimates of car accident fatalities released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is a 7% increase over the 8,935 deaths reported in the same quarter in 2021. This would be the highest number of first-quarter fatalities reported since 2002. 

First-Quarter Data Shows Record Increase in Fatalities  

Early estimates show the fatality rate for the first quarter of 2022 increased to 1.27 fatalities per 100 million vehicle-miles traveled. This has increased from 1.25 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles in the first quarter of 2021.  

NHTSA found that road fatalities decreased in 19 states and Puerto Rico in the first quarter of 2022, despite more fatalities across the country. NHTSA plans to continue tracking state-by-state statistics to help determine trends and identify actions being taken by these states that are causing this drop. 

Losing a loved one or a family member in a fatal car accident is one of the most traumatic experiences a person can face. NHTSA reported 38,824 people (about twice the seating capacity of Madison Square Garden) lost their lives because of motor vehicle accidents in 2020. In 2021, fatalities were projected to exceed that.  

You can review an overview of the full data here.  

A Long-Term Plan to Save Lives 

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the National Roadway Safety Strategy aim to reduce the number of roadway deaths and create safer roads. In addition, NHTSA has created educational campaigns to highlight the dangers of speeding and driving while intoxicated. The purpose of the campaign is to change people’s perception about speeding and spread information about its deadly consequences. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Labor Day is an annual public service message which focuses on preventing drinking and driving and improving road safety.  

Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents  

Simple changes in behavior while behind the wheel of a car can make a substantial difference in saving lives and preventing car accident-related injuries. There are several common causes of fatal car accidents, including intoxicated drivers, reckless driving, distracted driving, defective motor vehicle parts or products, and hazardous roads. Other common causes of car accidents can include drowsy driving, weather conditions, teenage or inexperienced drivers, construction zones, aggressive driving, and more.  

William Mattar, P.C., Can Help After a Fatal Car Accident     

After a fatal car accident, you may be looking for an experienced car accident attorney to help the estate bring a wrongful death claim. The car accident lawyers at William Mattar, P.C., can assess the situation after a fatal car accident and help determine how to obtain maximum compensation. To contact us, call (844) 444-444 or fill out our free initial-consultation form.