The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reported 1,230 traffic fatalities in 2021. That amount is almost a 9% increase in traffic fatalities compared to 2020. Cars are safer than ever, but traffic fatalities continue to rise. Here are some of the leading causes of fatal car accidents in Pennsylvania.
Speeding
Some motorists find it hard to drive within the speed limit. The result is that more than 20 percent of fatal accidents in 2020 occurred because of speeding. Accident statistics show most of these crashes occurred in zones with a speed limit below 55 miles per hour.
Driving while drunk
Drunk drivers are responsible for many injuries and fatalities every year. Pennsylvania had more than 44,000 DUI arrests in 2021. The state is tough on drunk drivers, but these accidents continue to occur. It’s estimated that drunk driving takes a life every 30 minutes.
Driving while distracted
Distracted driving is driving without paying attention to the road. Texting, talking on a cell phone, eating and daydreaming cause distracted driving. However, daydreaming is responsible for more fatal accidents than cell phone use.
Driving while drowsy
Driving drowsy is a recipe for disaster. It slows reaction time, affects decision-making and causes thoughts to drift. And even worse, you never know when sleep will win the battle. Driving while drowsy is as dangerous as falling asleep at the wheel.
Not wearing a seatbelt
Wearing a seatbelt could possibly save your life during a crash. A seatbelt can keep you inside your vehicle when you might otherwise get thrown out. Lack of a seatbelt could also cause serious injury from the force of a frontal airbag.
Pennsylvania motorists should practice safe driving at all times. Safe drivers make the streets better for everyone on the road. Pedestrians also benefit when drivers practice safety.
