Chicago Accident and Injury Lawyer Blog

Here is something that probably would not cross your mind: metropolitan areas that have seen the largest drop in employment also have the largest drop in traffic-related fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 37,261 people killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2008, which is the lowest number recorded since 1961. Why? NHTSA explored reasons in its 2010 study, An Analysis of the Significant Decline in Motor Vehicle Traffic Fatalities in 2008, crediting the recession for the drop in deaths. Data from the study indicated that previous drops in fatalities also occurred during times of recession.

In 2008, our Chicago Accident and Injury Lawyer blog discussed this very topic: how the troubled economy affects the number of traffic accidents in an area. Intuitively it makes sense, we suppose. When fewer people have jobs, fewer people are commuting. This may be the one bright spot in an otherwise dim economic period. Coincidentally, the demographic that saw one of the largest drops in fatality was that of young drivers of passenger vehicles, 16- to 24-years old. The study reasoned that since the "current unemployment rate among 16- to 24-year-olds is at a rate far greater (about twice) than the national average," the individuals in this age group are less likely to own and maintain a motor vehicle. Additionally, the age group enjoyed a reduced exposure to risk due to the decreased need to travel to a place of employment. With less money, 16- to 24-year olds also have fewer opportunities to travel in vehicles in search of leisure activities.

Recently, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced that the 2010 traffic fatality statistics continued to decrease, falling three percent between 2009 and 2010. This time, however, there was a reported increase in road travel, with nearly 21 billion miles travelled by vehicles nationwide. NHTSA conducted a regional breakdown, with greatest drop in fatalities recorded in the Pacific Northwest states of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Alaska.

Secretary LaHood has been an outspoken advocate against distracted driving and drunk driving and for improved vehicle safety. The car accident and injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Jeffrey J. Kroll appreciate his efforts to keep our roads safe. As wintery conditions prevail upon the Chicagoland area, we hope that all motorists make a conscious effort to practice safe driving techniques.