Driving a car is something most people do every day. But few stop to think about the real risk involved. Across the U.S., tens of thousands of people die in car crashes every year. According to the most recent data, about 42,795 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2022. That’s roughly one person every 12 minutes.
In Phoenix, where the roads are busy and the weather is often dry and clear, many assume the risk is low. But Arizona has seen an increase in traffic deaths, with speeding, alcohol use, and distracted driving being leading causes.
What Are the Lifetime Odds of Dying in a Car Crash?
The National Safety Council estimates the average American’s lifetime odds of dying in a car crash are about 1 in 93. That’s higher than dying in a fall or a fire. It’s also more likely than being killed by drowning, choking, or being struck by lightning.
The risk grows over time. A person who drives regularly for 50 years has a higher chance of being involved in at least one major crash, and possibly more than one. If you drive around 13,500 miles per year (the national average), your chances increase simply because you’re on the road more.
How Common Are Car Accident Injuries?
While fatalities are the most tragic outcome, injuries happen far more often. Each year, more than 4.5 million people in the U.S. are seriously injured in crashes. These injuries can include broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage. In some cases, injuries lead to long-term disabilities.
Even minor injuries can lead to lost workdays, medical bills, and emotional distress. The financial cost of car crashes nationwide is estimated at over $460 billion per year when including healthcare costs, lost productivity, and vehicle damage.
Common Risk Factors in Fatal Car Crashes
Not all crashes are random. Many happen under predictable conditions or due to certain behaviors. Here are the biggest risk factors:
Speeding
Driving too fast gives drivers less time to react and increases the force of impact. High-speed crashes are far more likely to result in death, especially in head-on collisions.
Drunk or Drugged Driving
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction time, and reduce coordination. Even a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.02 can affect your driving. At 0.08 (the legal limit in Arizona), the risk of a crash rises sharply. Around 30% of all fatal crashes in the U.S. involve alcohol.
Distracted Driving
Using a phone, eating, or adjusting controls while driving takes your attention away from the road. Texting while driving can increase the risk of a crash by up to 23 times.
Teen and Inexperienced Drivers
Younger drivers are more likely to be in fatal crashes due to lack of experience and a higher tendency to take risks, like speeding or not wearing a seatbelt.
How Car Safety Technology Affects Fatality Rates
Modern vehicles are safer than ever thanks to features like automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warnings, and electronic stability control. These tools help reduce the number and severity of crashes.
But safety features can’t prevent every accident. Even in cars with advanced systems, driver behavior still plays a major role in outcomes.
The Importance of Seat Belts and Safe Driving Habits
Seat belts save lives. They reduce the risk of death by about 50% in the event of a crash. Still, many fatal crashes involve drivers or passengers who weren’t wearing them.
Simple driving habits—like avoiding distractions, staying under the speed limit, and driving sober—can greatly reduce your chances of a fatal accident. Staying alert behind the wheel can make the difference between a close call and a deadly crash.
What Happens After a Fatal Car Accident?
When a car crash leads to someone’s death, the family left behind may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. These claims can help cover funeral costs, lost future income, and pain and suffering.
To bring a claim, the family will need to show that the other driver acted carelessly or broke the law. This might involve proving things like speeding, drunk driving, or running a red light.
How to Lower Your Odds of a Deadly Crash
While no one can eliminate risk entirely, there are simple steps you can take to stay safer on the road:
- Always wear your seatbelt
- Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Keep your focus on the road, not your phone
- Follow speed limits and road signs
- Keep your vehicle maintained—check brakes, tires, and lights regularly
These actions might seem small, but they can reduce your odds of being seriously hurt or killed in a crash.
Call CLS Law if You’ve Lost a Loved One in a Car Crash
Losing someone in a car crash is devastating. It can feel overwhelming to deal with medical bills, funeral arrangements, and insurance companies all at once. Our Phoenix car accident attorneys help families go through the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve. If you’re in Phoenix and someone you love died in a crash, call CLS Law at (855) 257-9467 to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to help you move forward.