NHTSA reported these numbers for 2006 for the United
States:
TRAFFIC CRASH VICTIMS |
||
| Killed |
Injured |
|
| Drivers | 22,830 |
1,666,000 |
| Passengers | 9,156 |
709,000 |
| Unknown | 106 |
|
| Motorcycle Riders | 4,810 |
88,000 |
| Pedestrians | 4,784 |
61,000 |
| Pedalcyclists | 773 |
44,000 |
| Other/Unknown | 183 |
7,000 |
| Total | 42,642 |
2,575,000 |
That translates to killing (42,642) the entire population of San Marcos, Texas,
or injuring (2,575,000) the entire population of San Antonio TWICE.
That is the bad news. The good news is that better educated and safety-conscious
Americans can save lives and reduce the economic loss. Traffic collisions take
an enormous toll in both human suffering and property damage, but it is something
that can be changed.
Pretty bleak statistics, but according to NHTSA there was a slight downward
trend in 2006. Although, 42,642 people lost their lives that year in motor vehicle
crashes, it was a decrease of 2% from 2005. A good reduction. Some of this improvement
is likely due to better vehicle safety devices (airbags, seat belts, etc.),
but better informed drivers must also have played a part in the reduction.
