National data released in October show that overall traffic fatalities in the US dropped for the third consecutive year and have reached the lowest levels since 2014.
There were 36,096 fatalities on American roads in 2019, a decrease of 2 percent from the previous year. This is particularly welcome news given that Americans collectively drove 28.8 billion miles, which is 1 percent more than the prior year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released the data, which covers the year 2019, along with a press release discussing the trend in traffic deaths.
According to the NHTSA, traffic deaths decreased across most of the major motor vehicle categories:
- Passenger vehicle occupants: down 2.8 percent
- Motorcyclists: down 0.5 percent
- Pedestrians: down 2.7 percent
- Bicyclists: down 2.9 percent
“Road safety is always our top priority, and … we are encouraged by today’s report showing a continued decline in total fatalities,” said NHTSA Deputy Administrator James Owens.
There could be several reasons for the reduction in deaths, including better adherence to Texas texting while driving laws, safer vehicle construction and drunk driving awareness advocacy.
As far as 2020, the NHTSA said data so far show a traffic volume decrease of 16 percent, largely due to COVID-19. The administration believes that ultimately this reduction in driving will result in fewer deaths, but we will have to wait until next year to know for sure.
Texas Fatalities Drop, But We Are Once Again the Deadliest State
The new data are a mix of good and bad news for Texas. On the positive side, we had 33 fewer deaths in 2019, a drop of 1 percent. On the negative side, we still had 3,615 fatalities, once again making Texas the deadliest state, overtaking California’s 3,606 deaths. Florida is the only other state with more than 3,000 fatalities.
Have You Lost a Loved One on Texas Roads?
Families of those who lose their lives in motor vehicle accidents may be entitled to compensation. We encourage families to seek the advice of a highly qualified and experienced Texas wrongful death lawyer. An attorney can investigate the accident, help you deal with insurance companies, and work to recover maximum compensation on your behalf.
The Dallas lawyers at Ted B. Lyon & Associates are always available to discuss your legal needs. If you have lost a loved one in a Texas auto accident, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Call 877-Ted-Lyon / 877-833-5966
or simply contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
