California Traffic Accident Statistics: Fatal Accidents by Crash Type

In our latest library article, we discussed California fatal car accident statistics, drunk driving statistics, and unrestrained occupant statistics. For our blog post today, we’ll continue the conversation by taking a look at what kinds of crashes cause deadly car accidents across the state.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these were the most common types of fatal crashes in 2010 in California:

• 1,645 fatal car accidents involved only a single vehicle
• 1,134 fatal car accidents involved a driver who was driving under the influence of alcohol
• 1,200 car accident fatalities involved a vehicle leaving the roadway
• 235 car accident fatalities involved at least one large commercial truck
• 922 car accident fatalities involved speeding or driving faster than the conditions allowed
• 696 car accident fatalities involved at least one vehicle roll-over
• 725 car accident fatalities involved a collision at an intersection
• 599 car accident fatalities involved a pedestrian
• 352 car accident fatalities involved a motorcycle or motorbike
• 99 car accident fatalities involved a cyclist or a person on a bicycle
• 4 car accident fatalities involved a bus

While these numbers can be shocking, it is important to note that the majority of these statistics have been falling significantly—even within the past five years. Fewer people are dying on our roads and highways as: safety technology improves, more Californians buckle up, and more people become aware of the dangers of speeding, driving under the influence, and distracted driving.

If you were involved in a California car accident, and if you have questions about a possible personal injury case, contact Russell & Lazarus today at (949) 851-0222 to schedule a free consultation.