Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the risk of traffic fatalities has increased on our roadways. Many of these serious and fatal car accidents are the result of speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, and overall recklessness. However, for Louisiana, recent data shows a promising trend.
Traffic fatalities in Louisiana decreased by 10.5% last year, according to newly released statistics from the state Highway Safety Commission. The numbers show that in 2023, 811 individuals died in traffic accidents across Louisiana, down from 852 the year before. This data includes all fatal motor vehicle, pedestrian, and bicycle accidents on Louisiana roads. According to a news release from the commission, the decline may signal the end of the pandemic-era surge in traffic fatalities.
The most significant drops were seen in pedestrian and bicycle fatalities. Each of these categories fell by around 20% compared to 2022. Both categories had seen sharp increases in the previous two years and are still above pre-pandemic levels. The commission noted that this could be due to more people walking and biking during the pandemic, which are habits they have kept up since.
What other factors contributed to Louisiana's decline in traffic fatalities?
Another encouraging factor seems to be increased seat belt usage. The commission's latest survey shows that 88.4% of drivers and passengers in Louisiana are wearing seat belts—a record high for the state and a three-point improvement from last year.
Alcohol-related fatalities, defined as crashes involving a driver with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08 or higher, also showed a decrease of 13.3% from 2022, marking the lowest figure since 2020.
What types of traffic fatalities haven't declined in Louisiana?
Not all categories saw improvements. Fatalities involving motorcycles, including ATVs, three-wheeled autocycles, and mopeds, rose nearly 9%, from 90 in 2022 to 98 in 2023. Additionally, Lisa Freeman, the executive director of the Highway Safety Commission, expressed cautious optimism about the future while pointing out that the current figures are still concerning.
"We still see too many people driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, too many distracted drivers, too much aggressive driving, and not enough seat belt usage," Freeman said. "Those four human behaviors are responsible for about 85% of our non-pedestrian fatalities."
Get the help you need from a New Orleans car accident lawyer
If you've been hurt in a car accident, let Attorney John S. Williams fight for you. With over 15 years of experience, he knows the tactics insurance companies use and how to combat them. With our law firm on your side, you can focus on healing while we handle your claim from start to finish.
We know what it takes to get results, whether that means settling your claim or taking it to court to demand justice. From negotiating with the insurance company to gathering evidence and building a strong case, we will be with you every step of the way. Some of our most notable car accident case results include:
- $500,000 for a minor whose father was killed due to a commercial vehicle improperly attaching a trailer hitch.
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We understand that the financial strain after a car accident can be significant. That's why we offer our services on a contingency fee basis—meaning you don't pay unless we win. Plus, your initial consultation is completely free. There's no risk in contacting us, just the chance to have a skilled attorney by your side, fighting to maximize your compensation. Contact us online or call us today, and let us help you get your life back on track.