The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 8,730 people died in motor vehicle collisions in the first quarter of 2021 alone. The agency claims this figure is a 10.5% increase in deadly accidents for Q1 this year compared to last, even though vehicle miles traveled (VMT) decreased by 2.1% (about 14.9 billion miles).
The fatality increase is even more concerning when compared to data from earlier years. For example, Q3 of 2020 saw a nearly 15% increase in traffic fatalities, the most severe since 1979.
These data are also broken down by geographical region. In 2021, New England saw a 1% increase in fatalities compared to 2020. The Southeast saw an 18% increase in the same time frame, while the Mountain States saw a 28% increase, close to that of the Pacific Northwest and Wyoming, which saw a 27% increase in fatalities.
The only regions with fewer fatalities than last year were the Mid-Atlantic (-6%) and West North Central (0%).
The latest data has not yet been released, but projections speak to a continued increase in fatalities. Langdon & Emison is a nationally recognized firm specializing in truck and car accident litigation.
If you or a loved one were injured, or if you’re an attorney looking for a referral opportunity, give us a call at (866) 931-2115.