NHTSA on Fatalities Decline in First Half of 2023

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a press release about their estimates that traffic fatalities have continued to decline in the first half of 2023. According to the NHTSA, traffic fatalities have continued to decline for five straight quarters. Early estimates show that about 19,515 people died in motor vehicle crashes in the first half of 2023. This is a 3.3 percent decrease from the 20,190 fatalities estimated in the first half of 2022. Additionally, fatalities have declined in both the first and second quarters of 2023.  

Vehicle Miles Are Up And Fatalities are Down  

The data also shows that vehicle miles traveled increased in the first half of 2023. The miles increased by 35.1 billion, which is about 2.3 percent higher than for the same time last year. That means that there have been more miles driven, and also, there have been fewer traffic crash deaths. The projected fatality rate for the first half of 2023 is 1.24 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, and that’s compared with the projected rate of 1.31 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled in the first half of 2022.  

Improving Roadway Safety with Technological Advancements  

Traffic safety advocates are encouraged by this data, especially after the spike in traffic fatalities that happened during the pandemic. Officials with the NHTSA still have several safety initiatives coming up in an effort to make roadways across the U.S. safer. From issues like automatic emergency braking systems to seat belt warning systems, consumers can expect enhanced safety technology when they’re shopping for new cars.  

Car Accidents in Southern California  

Car accidents can leave people in the hospital and out of work, or worse. After any kind of car accident caused by a distracted driver or a dangerous driver, it’s important to speak with a Personal Injury lawyer about your case. You may be entitled to compensation to cover medical bills and other expenses associated with your injuries.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a dangerous or distracted driver in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.