Some Eye Opening Auto Accident Statistics

If you’ve ever complained or wondered about car insurance rates, you should know that automobile insurance, like other forms of insurance, are largely statistics-based. There’s a cause and effect with statistics and car insurance. Here are some eye-opening auto accident statistics that may help improve the appreciation and importance of this loss prevention product.

• There are some 6 million car accidents per year in the United States. That breaks down to a half-million accidents per month and over 115,000 per week. That’s about 16,500 per day, 685 per hour, and just over 11 per minute.
• There are about 227 million licensed drivers in the country. Since there are an estimated 6 million accidents anticipated, a licensed driver has about a 1 in 20 chance of being a driver in an auto accident. When taking a 1,000 mile trip, the chances of being in an accident are one in 366.
• There are over 35,000 annual deaths related to vehicle accidents. Over the last five years between 35,000 and 40,000 have lost their lives in vehicle-related crashes yearly. That averages out to about 95 deaths each and every day.
• What are the major causes of car accidents? Statistics show that distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents followed by speeding and drunk driving. Those are followed by reckless driving and weather conditions such as rain.
• Youngest, newest drivers are at the highest risk. While this may not be surprising, how dramatic the difference is may be. For example, a 16 year old driver is 1.5 times more likely to get into a car accident than even drivers in the 18-19 age group. This stresses the important role experience plays in safe driving.
• Afternoon rush hour is the most dangerous time to drive. According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration, more accidents occur between 3-6pm in the afternoon, Monday through Friday. The most dangerous day to drive is Saturday, due to recreational travel and drunk driving.

The above statistics aren’t meant to frighten drivers but to improve a healthier respect for the activity. Cars that weigh 3 to 4 thousand pounds traveling at 55 miles per hour or more can create a great deal of havoc quickly. Drive defensively, and avoid driving while distracted.

If you would like to see how your current car insurance rates compare with those of other companies, contact one of our independent insurance agents. We’ll do the shopping for you! Contact us today for a no obligation quote.