Motor vehicle collisions are consistently one of the most common causes of accidental injuries in our region. While state officials are making an effort to reduce traffic safety risks, there is still a very long way to go. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we are strong and experienced advocates for traffic safety. Our firm wants everyone to understand the risks associated with driving. Here, our Minnesota car accident lawyer provides a detailed analysis of the latest crash data in our state.
A Detailed Analysis of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Minnesota
The most recent comprehensive report on motor vehicle collisions in our state comes from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for the year 2022. The report contains a wide range of statistics, information, and suggestions related to traffic safety. The key finding is that motor vehicle collisions remain a serious public health hazard in Minnesota. More needs to be done to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities. Here is a detailed analysis of motor vehicle accidents in Minnesota:
- The Headline (Car Accident Data for 2022 in Minnesota): In 2022, Minnesota reported 70,266 traffic crashes. For reference, that means that around 200 traffic collisions are reported on the average day in the state. In total, car accidents in Minnesota in 2022 resulted in 23,704 injuries and 444 confirmed fatalities.
- Pedestrian/Cyclist Safety is a Concern: Minnesota is trying to make a proactive effort to improve pedestrian safety and bicycle safety. More work is required. In 2022, there were 25 pedestrian fatalities in the state. There were also six bicyclist fatalities. Many more pedestrians and cyclists sustained serious injuries in crashes.
- Motorcyclists are Vulnerable: In 2022, there were 80 motorcyclist fatalities reported statewide in Minnesota. For reference, that means that motorcyclists are nearly 25 times more likely to be killed in a crash than are drivers. Motorcycle safety is a must. Minnesota has a partial helmet law. With that being said, all riders should always wear a helmet. Motorcycle helmets help to prevent traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). They can save lives.
- Major Progress Over Two Decades, but Little in Recent Years: Minnesota has adopted a Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) traffic safety program. The goal is to what is possible to eliminate traffic deaths. Since the program was initiated 20 years ago, there has been a 32 percent reduction in traffic deaths. However, most of the progress was made in the first decade of the program. Traffic deaths are actually up compared to five years ago.
- Notable Contributing Factors to Motor Vehicle Accidents: Crashes in Minnesota happen for a wide range of different reasons. However, public safety officials do cite some common contributory factors. To start, excessive speed remains a leading cause of crashes, Next, alcohol-related crashes continue to be a significant concern. Nearly one-third of deadly crashes are impaired driving crashes. Finally, there are still gaps in seat belt usage. Despite awareness campaigns, unbelted motorists accounted for 87 fatalities in 2022.
- Two Big Demographic Data Points for Car Accidents: Any driver can get into a bad crash. Though, there are two big demographic data points cited by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. First, young drivers (ages 16-30) and senior drivers (ages 61 and above) are notably overrepresented in crash statistics. Further, male drivers, while not substantially more likely to be involved in a crash on a per-mile travelled basis, are far more likely to be in a fatal accident. Risky driving remains a problem amongst some young male drivers.
How the Minnesota Auto Accident Lawyers at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler Can Help
The data is clear: Car accidents are a leading cause of injuries in Minnesota. Following a motor vehicle crash, you may have a lot of questions about your rights and your options. You cannot trust any insurance company to look out for your best interests. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we provide personalized advocacy. With millions of dollars in compensation secured for our clients, our verdicts and settlements show what we can do for car accident victims in Minnesota. We are prepared to review your case for free during a comprehensive consultation. You may be entitled to compensation for vehicle repairs, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Contact Our Minnesota Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney Today
At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our Minnesota car accident lawyers are aggressive, experienced advocates for justice. We are always prepared to go the extra mile to help you get the maximum financial recovery. Hurt in any type of motor vehicle crash? Our team is your resource. Call us now or connect with us online for a free review of your case. We are committed to fighting for justice for injured victims in Houston County, Winona County, and throughout the region.