Eye-Opening Statistics for North Carolina Car Accidents – A Comprehensive Analysis (2018-2023)

Car accidents are a pressing issue in North Carolina, with significant impacts on public safety and well-being. A detailed review of the last five years of car accident data from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) reveals critical trends and insights into the state of road safety. This comprehensive analysis examines various aspects of car accidents, including total crashes, fatalities, contributing factors, and trends over time.

1. Total Crashes and Yearly Trends

Annual Overview:

• 2018: 284,000 total crashes
• 2019: 285,074 total crashes
• 2020: 247,214 total crashes (pandemic-related decrease)
• 2021: 276,026 total crashes (post-pandemic rebound)
• 2022: 288,000 total crashes (return to pre-pandemic levels)

The data shows a general increase in total crashes over the past five years, with a notable dip in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns and stay-at-home orders led to reduced traffic volumes, contributing to a decrease in the number of reported crashes. However, as traffic resumed in 2021 and 2022, crash numbers returned to pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the ongoing challenges in road safety.

2. Fatalities and Serious Injuries

Fatal Crash Statistics:

• 2018: 1,442 fatalities
• 2019: 1,470 fatalities
• 2020: 1,658 fatalities (increase despite fewer crashes)
• 2021: 1,755 fatalities (highest in over a decade)
• 2022: 1,704 fatalities

Fatal crashes have been on the rise, with a significant peak in 2021. Despite fewer cars on the road during the pandemic, fatality rates increased, reflecting more severe accidents. Factors contributing to this trend include riskier driving behaviors and an increase in high-speed collisions.

Serious Injuries:

Injuries from car accidents have also been a major concern, with over 100,000 individuals injured annually. In 2022, serious injuries continued to make up a large portion of these cases. The severity of injuries ranges from fractures and concussions to life-threatening conditions, emphasizing the need for effective injury prevention strategies.

3. Key Contributing Factors

Speeding:

Speeding is a significant factor in car accidents in North Carolina. The NCDOT reports that speed-related crashes account for a substantial percentage of all fatal accidents:

• 2018: 42,950 speed-related crashes
• 2019: 43,375 speed-related crashes
• 2020: 39,000 speed-related crashes
• 2021: 41,000 speed-related crashes
• 2022: 45,000 speed-related crashes

The increase in speed-related crashes in 2022 indicates a persistent issue with drivers exceeding speed limits, often resulting in more severe accidents.

Alcohol-Related Crashes:

Alcohol continues to be a major factor in traffic fatalities:

• 2018: 10,039 alcohol-related crashes
• 2019: 10,100 alcohol-related crashes
• 2020: 9,450 alcohol-related crashes
• 2021: 10,250 alcohol-related crashes
• 2022: 10,500 alcohol-related crashes

The number of alcohol-related crashes remains high despite various prevention efforts, highlighting the need for continued focus on DUI enforcement and public awareness.

Distracted Driving:

Distracted driving, primarily due to cellphone use, remains a critical issue:

• 2018: 53,300 distracted driving crashes
• 2019: 54,000 distracted driving crashes
• 2020: 50,000 distracted driving crashes
• 2021: 52,500 distracted driving crashes
• 2022: 53,000 distracted driving crashes

Despite awareness campaigns, the rate of distracted driving crashes has not seen significant improvement, reflecting ongoing challenges in managing driver attention.

4. Pedestrian and Cyclist Involvement

Pedestrian Accidents:

Pedestrian fatalities have been a growing concern:

• 2018: 225 pedestrian fatalities
• 2019: 245 pedestrian fatalities
• 2020: 240 pedestrian fatalities
• 2021: 267 pedestrian fatalities
• 2022: 260 pedestrian fatalities

Pedestrian accidents often occur in urban areas with high foot traffic. Improved infrastructure and safer crosswalks are essential to address this issue.

Cyclist Accidents:

Cyclist fatalities also remain a concern:

• 2018: 25 cyclist fatalities
• 2019: 26 cyclist fatalities
• 2020: 30 cyclist fatalities
• 2021: 31 cyclist fatalities
• 2022: 28 cyclist fatalities

Efforts to enhance cyclist safety, such as better bike lanes and public education, are crucial for reducing these numbers.

5. Urban vs. Rural Crash Trends

Urban Areas:

Urban centers like Raleigh, Charlotte, and Greensboro experience higher total crash rates due to denser traffic. However, these areas also see higher rates of non-fatal accidents compared to rural areas. Efforts in urban areas often focus on reducing congestion and improving traffic management.

Rural Areas:

Rural areas, while having fewer total crashes, face a higher proportion of fatal accidents. In 2022, rural crashes accounted for approximately 60% of all fatalities. Contributing factors include higher speeds, longer emergency response times, and less infrastructure for safety.

6. Impact of COVID-19 on Crash Trends

The COVID-19 pandemic had a dual effect on car accident statistics:

• Reduced Traffic Volumes: Traffic decreased significantly in 2020, leading to fewer accidents overall.
• Increased Severity: With fewer cars on the road, those that remained tended to drive faster and more recklessly, leading to more severe accidents and a higher fatality rate per mile driven.

The pandemic’s effects underscore the importance of understanding how external factors can influence driving behavior and crash rates.

7. Safety Initiatives and Future Outlook

Safety Campaigns:

North Carolina has implemented various safety campaigns to address key issues:

• Speeding Enforcement: Increased traffic patrols and speed cameras have been used to reduce speeding.
• DUI Checkpoints: Regular DUI checkpoints aim to deter impaired driving.
• Distracted Driving Awareness: Campaigns focusing on the dangers of cellphone use while driving seek to reduce distracted driving incidents.

Infrastructure Improvements:

Investments in road infrastructure, including better lighting, pedestrian crosswalks, and bike lanes, are crucial for enhancing safety. Ongoing projects aim to address high-risk areas and improve overall road conditions.

Technology and Innovation:

Advancements in vehicle safety technology, such as automatic braking systems and collision warnings, are helping to reduce accidents. Continued innovation in automotive safety features will play a vital role in preventing future crashes.

Conclusion

The car accident statistics from the past five years highlight the persistent challenges facing North Carolina’s road safety. With rising crash rates, fatalities, and serious injuries, addressing factors such as speeding, impaired driving, and distractions remains critical. Efforts to improve safety through enforcement, public awareness, and infrastructure upgrades are essential for reducing accidents and saving lives.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a car accident, seeking legal assistance is crucial. At RHD Legal, our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 919-246-4001. Let us assist you in achieving the justice and support you need during this challenging time.