Sometimes the best way to find out if it is getting safer or more dangerous to drive is by studying accident statistics from previous years. Fortunately, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers up-to-date information about vehicle accidents annually.
The most recent state accident statistics are from 2021. The data suggests that some areas have improved while most others have gotten worse.
A mixed yet still disturbing picture
On average, Virginia roadways saw fewer motor vehicle accidents in 2021 than they saw between 2017 and 2020. Below are nine more notable crash statistics for motorists to consider.
- Car accidents increased by about 12% from the crash rate of 2020
- Speeding-related crashes increased from 2020 by about 9.5%
- Accidents involving pedestrians increased from 2020 by 12.6%
- Alcohol-involved crash fatalities actually decreased by 9.2% from 2020
- Motorcycle accident fatalities increased in 2021 by more than 17%
- Vehicle accident injuries increased from 2020 by about 6%
- Motorcycle accidents increased in 2021 by just over 12%
- Unrestrained accident fatalities involving vehicle occupants decreased by almost 3% from 2020
- Injuries sustained by unrestrained vehicle occupants increased by 7.3% in 2021
It is worth noting that nearly half of those killed in 2021 car accidents were not using safety restraints at the time of the crash.
Why does this data matter?
For two reasons: It helps the authorities continue to drill down on the causes and consequences of car accidents, allowing them to address problem areas. It helps residents identify situations (a motorist drinking beer, using a cell phone, etc.) when driving with extra caution is advisable.
If you have suffered severe injuries or lost a loved one to a traffic crash, it’s time to learn about Virginia car accident compensation. Taking this step ensures your accident settlement addresses all the losses you have suffered.