Statistics are some of the most powerful tools in the fight against Missouri car accidents. By analyzing the numbers, authorities can identify important trends and patterns. Once they understand what is causing traffic injuries and fatalities, they can take steps to address these catalysts. In that regard, Missouri car accident stats can potentially save lives. One thing statistics cannot do, however, is reverse the damage that has already occurred. No amount of statistical analysis can ever bring back those who have perished in fatal Missouri car accidents. Statistics also fail to cure permanent, debilitating injuries that prevent victims from earning income. For these victims and their families, working with an experienced Missouri car accident lawyer may make more sense than statistical analysis. These legal professionals may be able to guide car accident victims toward justice, closure, and compensation. Learn more about these possibilities with Steelman Gaunt Crowley – and contact us at (573) 341-8336 to continue this discussion.
Each Year, About 1,000 People Die in Missouri Car Accidents
Perhaps the most alarming statistics involve traffic fatalities. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, about 1,000 people die each year in car accidents across the Show-Me State. Within the last five years, the most fatalities occurred in 2022 – with 1,057 deaths. Deaths declined slightly over the next few years, but not by much. Missouri has a population of about 6.2 million, making it comparable to states like Colorado, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Minnesota.
However, all of these states had significantly fewer traffic fatalities compared to Missouri. For example, Massachusetts recorded only 434 deaths in 2022 – despite having about 700,000 more people than Missouri. This suggests that traffic safety is a significant problem in the Show-Me State – and traffic authorities may need to catch up with other jurisdictions on a per-capita basis.
“Aggressive Driving” Causes the Most Fatal Accidents in Missouri
The Missouri Department of Transportation has concluded that “aggressive driving” causes the most fatal car accidents in the state. Each year, this factor contributes to about 500 traffic fatalities. Examples of aggressive driving include street racing, speeding, brake-checking, tailgating, running red lights, and so on. Road rage incidents may also prove fatal. Aggressive driving is an obvious form of “negligence,” which means victims may be able to hold aggressive drivers liable after suffering injuries. If aggressive driving causes a death in the family, loved ones may file a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent motorist. This is something Steelman Gaunt Crowley may be able to assist with.
Other major contributing factors to fatal accidents include “unrestrained occupants” and “run-off-road.” Many traffic fatalities occur because people fail to wear seat belts, and this statistic should serve as an important reminder to always buckle up. “Run-off-road” refers to a type of single-vehicle crash in which a driver veers off the roadway. Subsequent impacts with trees or concrete barriers can easily prove fatal, and this is a relatively common type of accident in Missouri.
Almost 50,000 People Were Injured by Car Accidents in 2022
While preventing traffic fatalities is probably the primary concern for authorities in Missouri, one should not overlook the staggering number of injuries suffered by motorists each year. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49,890 people were injured by crashes in 2022. Of these victims, the highest percentage was between the ages of 25 and 34. Almost 1,000 children between the ages of 0 and 4 were also injured. In addition, 1,318 18-year-olds were injured in crashes throughout 2022.
Many of these injuries undoubtedly caused life-altering health consequences. The National Institutes of Health states that in 1995, 1.2 million American adults were living with permanent disabilities caused by traffic accidents. The population has increased by about 25% since 1995, so the number of people permanently disabled by car accidents is probably closer to 1.5 million today. The most obvious effect of a permanent disability is the loss of income. However, permanent disabilities can also cause a range of psychological issues – including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, social withdrawal, and many others. A disability can also cause “loss of enjoyment of life,” a legal damage that represents the loss of access to enjoyable pastimes.
“Failure to Yield” Is the Most Common Cause of All Accidents
Each year, the Missouri State Highway Patrol compiles a list of “probable contributing circumstances” for car accidents. Each year, “failure to yield” is the most common contributing factor – leading to almost 13,000 crashes each year. This traffic violation may lead to various types of accidents, affecting pedestrians, motorists, and cyclists. One of the most common examples is the failure to yield when turning left at an intersection, and this violation can endanger pedestrians or incoming traffic. Another example is the failure to yield when merging onto a highway – a common offense that can lead to some of the most severe traffic accidents imaginable. Drivers must also yield to school buses and emergency vehicles.
Although they contribute to about half as many accidents, three other contributing circumstances are worth mentioning: Driving too fast for conditions, following too close, and distracted driving. Contributing to about 7,000 crashes each year, driving too fast for conditions is a common violation for drivers in adverse weather. During these challenging conditions, the normal posted speed limit may not apply. Following too close is another common issue, and this violation leads to about 6,000 crashes each year (mostly rear-enders). Distracted driving also causes about 6,000 crashes a year, and this violation is becoming more common with the rise of the smartphone.
FAQ
1. How many people die each year in Missouri from car accidents?
- Roughly around 1,000 people die each year in traffic crashes statewide.
- 2022 was particularly deadly, with 1,057 fatalities.
2. How many people are injured in Missouri car crashes annually?
- In 2022, nearly 50,000 people were reported injured in car accidents statewide.
3. Which age groups are most affected by injuries and fatalities?
- The highest share of injured persons is among people aged 25–34.
- For fatal crashes, a significant portion of victims are in the 15–35 age range, with 25–34 often overrepresented.
4. What are the most common contributing factors to crashes and fatal accidents?
- Failure to yield is repeatedly cited as the most common contributing factor.
- Other frequent causes include speeding, tailgating/following too close, and distracted driving.
- Among fatal crashes, alcohol/drug impairment and speeding remain among the highest risk factors.
5. Do most crashes happen under poor weather or road conditions?
- Most traffic crashes occur during daylight on dry pavement.
- Despite favorable conditions, crashes still often result from driver behavior, making safe driving habits critical.
Learn More With Steelman Gaunt Crowley After a Missouri Car Accident
Statistical analysis can pave the way for many traffic improvements. Sometimes, lawmakers propose new traffic safety bills after becoming aware of alarming car accident trends. The publication of crash statistics is often the first step in this process, and average people can help by sharing these statistics. By improving awareness about traffic safety, all citizens can play a role in making Missouri roads safer. That being said, it is important to remember that victims of Missouri car accidents are not just numbers. They are real people struggling with the loss of income, loss of enjoyment of life, and burdensome medical bills. If a Missouri car accident has caused injury or death, consider speaking with an experienced Missouri car accident lawyer. Continue this conversation with Steelman Gaunt Crowley by contacting us at (573) 341-8336.