Those who are lucky enough to have never been involved in a vehicle accident often believe this will never happen to them. However, another driver could make a mistake at any point, leading to an accident in which you are injured.

Car Accidents are a Common Occurrence

For a better idea of how common vehicle accidents have become, here are a few important statistics compiled by the Association for Safe International Road Travel and Driver Knowledge:

  • More than 37,000 people die in road crashes every year in the United States.
  • Along with those who are killed, another 2.5 million are injured.
  • More than 1,600 children under the age of 15 die every year in a vehicle accident.
  • Road crashes cost the United States more than $230 billion per year.
  • Nearly 8,000 people are killed in crashes involving drivers ages 16-20.
  • There is an estimated six million car accident each year.
  • An estimated two million people experience severe injuries from a car accident.
  • People not wearing a seatbelt are 30x more likely to be ejected during an accident.
  • Seatbelts cut the risk of an injury by almost 50%.
  • About 40% of severe car accidents are due to alcohol consumption.
  • About 30% are due to speeding.

With these road crash statistics in mind, it is easier to see just how many people are involved in accidents every year. Boston is no stranger to car accidents either on its busy roads.

Tips to Prevent Becoming a Statistic in a Car Accident

When you consider these statistics, it can make it scary to think about heading out into the busy traffic on Boston’s roads. But, there are a few tips that you can follow to prevent becoming a statistic:

  • Prioritize safety: Seatbelts are one of the most important protective features in a vehicle, but they are not the only one. Today, many vehicles come with available safety features, such as cross-traffic alerts and rear sensors. When it comes time to upgrade your vehicle, consider opting for these features over other technologies.
  • Keep up with preventative maintenance: Preventative maintenance ensures that your vehicle is in good working condition. This includes checking your brakes and tires. It might also include checking the condition of your airbags. Airbags are important to the safety of your vehicle, they save thousands of drivers and passengers each year.
  • Ensure children are properly equipped: Poorly equipped or placed car seats can also lead to more injuries when vehicles are in a car accident.
  • Avoid distractions: While drinking and driving have been the biggest cause of severe car accidents for years, distractions are closely following. Distractions are extremely dangerous, reducing the driver’s reaction time in a way that is similar to driving while under the influence. Avoid distractions while driving.

In the event that you find yourself in this position, contact us to discuss your case. You may be able to file a personal injury claim to receive compensation for injuries and other damages.