Knowing statistics about car accidents allows experts from a variety of fields to come together to make driving safer for everyone. This can mean everything from improving road design, car engineering, and laws. In fact, some statistics have led to the eventual changing of legislation that affects not only drivers but the practice of personal injury law.
National Statistics
Before diving into the specifics of Ventura County, it might help to get a glimpse of national statistics and trends.
Car and Motorcycle Accidents
Car accidents involve passenger cars, SUVs, and vans. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has noted that fatality rates for automobile accidents decreased from 2016 to 2017, and again from 2017 to 2018 with a 2.4% decrease. Motorcycle accidents also decreased during those same years.
Buses and Large Trucks
Unfortunately, even though car and motorcycle fatalities are decreasing, they have increased for buses and large trucks. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there was a 9% increase in fatal crashes that involved buses or large trucks. This comes after a brief period, from 2005 to 2009, where there was a 34% decrease.
Between 2007 and 2017, the majority of these accidents involved school buses, with 40% of all large truck and bus crash fatalities. Crashes involving public transit accounted for 35% of the crash fatalities. Innercity buses accounted for 13%.
Car Accident Statistics in Ventura County
Now let’s take a look at statistics specific to our area. Thankfully, Ventura County ranks lower than the national and state average for the number of car accidents per 100,000 people, and this has been so ever since 2016. In 2017, however, it was noted that men were almost twice more likely to be involved in a car accident than women. However, officials may not know why.
Peak times for streets and roads in Ventura County can vary depending on what road you are driving down. These are times when a large number of people are traveling on the roads, possibly making them more dangerous.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Many car accidents are preventable, such as those caused by drunk driving or being under the influence of illegal or prescribed drugs. But owners and managers of transportation companies are also liable if their employees work too hard and do have adequate breaks for rest.
Fatalities can possibly be prevented if drivers and occupants are wearing a seatbelt or helmet, whichever applies for the type of vehicle they are using.
Wet weather conditions, such as heavy rain, means that the roads will be more slippery, and thus drivers need to be cautious. Drivers should also pay attention to construction sites and when merging lanes to avoid sideswipe accidents.Â
It is vital to be alert and paying attention when behind the wheel, and not texting, to ensure the safety of the driver, passengers, pedestrians, and bikers.