With the start of a new year, government agencies are tasked with analyzing accident statistics from the previous year. For Pennsylvanians, it is important to take note of trends so they can be aware of what to watch out for when trying to stay safe.
While some of the numbers show positive signs, others are worrisome.
NHTSA numbers show good and bad signs for road safety in 2022
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released its 2022 road fatality statistics through September. Here are some key takeaways:
- On the plus side, there was a minor decline in fatalities across the nation. Fatalities fell by 0.2% when compared to the first nine months of 2021. Despite that welcome news, pedestrians and cyclists both saw increases in fatalities. For pedestrians, it was up by 2%; for cyclists, it was 8%.
- Some areas did not fare as well as others. The northeast (Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New Jersey and New York) had a 4% increase in fatalities.
- Overall, 31,785 people lost their lives from the months of January through September of 2022. This was 65 fewer than the previous year.
- Notably, drivers were on the road more often with an increase in miles driven of 1.6%. A representative of the Governors Highway Safety Association noted that the two previous years had seen a major uptick in reckless driving.
- The roads themselves were important for context. Rural interstate roads had a 12% increase in deaths resulting from accidents. Smaller roads, like rural collector and local roads were at 9%. Urban collector and local roads had a 10% reduction. If the collision involved a large truck, the fatalities rose by 10%.
Seeking professional help after an accident can be vital for the future
As this information shows, the roads remain dangerous for everyone. That is especially true for cyclists and pedestrians. Given the challenges that can come about as a result of an auto accident, it is important to have guidance from a professional.
When there are injuries, people will have medical expenses, lost wages and possibly need help with their recovery. If there is a fatality, the family must think about how they will move forward without their loved one while also going through the grieving process.
Relying on insurance companies to provide sufficient compensation is often a mistake. Relying on qualified legal assistance can be crucial to making a full financial and personal recovery.