Alabama’s roadways are hazardous for inattentive drivers, pedestrians and motorcyclists. Recent trends show an increase in accidents and fatalities on Alabama’s roadways over the last ten years. Research shows changing dynamics in drivers, traffic patterns and the severity of accidents.
Recognizing those trends and the associated risks is important for protecting your family.
What is driving the increases in crash statistics?
Alabama has recorded an increase in licensed drivers on the road over the last ten years along with a nearly ten percent rise in motor vehicle registrations. More drivers and more vehicles on the road mean a greater risk of accidents.
Which statistics are on the rise?
A study of traffic and crash statistics over the last decade indicates a 5 percent increase in motor vehicle accidents and a nearly 4% increase in fatalities, with Alabama’s fatality rate from motor vehicle accidents surpassing the national average. The economic losses associated with these accidents increased by 30% over the same period.
When and where are these crashes most likely?
More than half of the accidents occurred within 25 miles of the drivers’ homes. Friday nights and Saturday nights saw the most accidents and fatalities, with most of the crashes occurring from 3 PM to 6 PM and most of the fatalities between 5 PM and 7 PM. The leading cause of accidents in the study was the failure to yield, while wrong-way drivers led the statistics for causing fatalities.
Defensive driving and focused attention behind the wheel are imperative for protecting yourself, your family and other drivers on the road.
