The COVID-19 pandemic changed many aspects of our lives, including how we drive. A new study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows that U.S. roads became much more dangerous during the pandemic, with some groups facing a higher risk than others. From May 2020 through December 2022, 114,528 people lost their lives in car accidents across the U.S. This marks a 17% increase in deaths compared to pre-pandemic rates. In other words, nearly 17,000 more people died in fatal crashes than predicted.
Young adults and minorities hit hardest by surging traffic deaths
The study found that young adults (ages 20-24) saw the biggest jump in traffic deaths compared to forecasts. Teens (ages 16-19) topped the list in 2021. Men consistently had 14-19% more deaths than expected, while women only saw an increase (15%) in 2021.
Black and Hispanic Americans bore the brunt of this trend. While Black Americans make up about 12% of the U.S. population, they accounted for roughly 34% of the extra traffic deaths. Hispanic Americans, who represent 19% of the population, made up about 25% of the increase.
Why have fatal crashes increased?
Several factors contributed to the rise in fatal crashes, including:
- More risky driving: Speeding and drunk driving remained major causes of deadly car accidents.
- Less seatbelt use: Almost all of the increase in deaths involved people not wearing seatbelts.
- Late-night danger: Contrary to what some thought, the biggest spikes in fatal crashes happened late at night and early in the morning, not during previously busy daytime hours.
How did the pandemic worsen fatal crashes?
The study revealed that the pandemic made existing traffic safety gaps even wider. Counties with social and economic challenges, as well as racial and ethnic minority communities, saw a bigger increase in traffic deaths.
Dr. David Yang, who leads the AAA Foundation, said, "There are still far too many road users who lose their lives in preventable crashes. The findings from this latest AAA Foundation study underscore the importance of addressing traffic safety from an equity perspective – communities across the United States must provide safe transportation options to meet the needs of their users."
What can we do to make roads safer for everyone?
Jake Nelson, AAA's traffic safety director, stressed the need for action: "It's time for transportation leaders to walk the talk about curbing traffic deaths. This research shows a path towards zero traffic deaths for the nation, which means focusing resources and solutions on the people who face the biggest risks on our roads – lower socioeconomic and minority groups."
AAA is teaming up with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to boost traffic safety in cities across the U.S. They're paying special attention to communities that haven't received enough support in the past. Working with transportation and community leaders, AAA and NTSB will help identify ways to make roads safer. They'll use the "Safe System" approach, which considers road design and other factors that affect safety.
Put experience on your side after a car crash
As we move forward from the pandemic, this research reminds us that traffic safety is more than just following rules. It's about creating a fair system where everyone can travel safely, regardless of who they are or where they live. Unfortunately, negligent drivers will always put others at risk of being injured.
If you've been hurt in a car accident in New Orleans, you could be up against an insurance company eager to settle quickly. Without the help of an attorney, you could find yourself shortchanged with a lowball settlement offer.
The Law Offices of John S. Williams, LLC can help you recover compensation for your injuries. With over 15 years of legal experience, attorney John S. Williams has fought for maximum settlements and verdicts for countless clients in Louisianna, including:
- A $500,000 settlement that was awarded to a minor whose father was killed due to a commercial vehicle's improperly attached trailer hitch.
- A $250,000 settlement that was reached for a rear-end collision caused by an impaired driver running a red light.
- A $200,000 settlement that was obtained for a client rear-ended by a tractor-trailer.
Don't hesitate to contact our law firm for a free consultation. We'll listen to your concerns and answer any questions you have. Plus, our legal services won't cost you any money upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis and get paid nothing unless we win your case.