Car Occupants Killed in California – Statistics of Fatal Crashes

In 2021, there were nearly 15,000 car occupants killed in the US.

The number of car occupants killed in the United States accounted for 34 percent of all road users who died, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. 

California had more car occupants killed than any other state. Data shows there were 1,502 car occupants killed in the Golden State. 

This accounted for 35 percent of all road user deaths in California. 

There were other alarming statistics. According to the study, California ranked:

• Second amongst all states for fatal crashes of any kind
• Second amongst all states for deaths of SUV and pickup occupants
• Second amongst deaths of large truck occupants

With such a large number of car occupants killed, what can be done to prevent fatal accidents?

While there is no surefire way to stop a fatal accident, there are several steps that may decrease their probability.

Seatbelts are like a motor vehicle life preserver. A recent study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration revealed that nearly 15,000 lives were saved by using a seatbelt

Another study reveals that in 38 percent of all accident fatalities in California, the victims were not wearing their seatbelt. 

Furthermore, speeding is a major factor in all car accident fatalities. In the last three years, 2022 saw the most car crash fatalities in Los Angeles, accounting for nearly ten percent of the entire state’s crash fatalities.

Speeding puts drivers, passengers, and anyone else around them in danger. Following traffic signals and signs like posted speed limits can help reduce the chances of a car accident.

Additionally, distracted driving was the cause of over 3,000 traffic related fatalities at the national level. A distracted driver may:

• Look at their phone as opposed to the road ahead
• Eat food that requires more attention
• Try getting dressed, such as adjusting a tie or applying makeup
• Pay attention to children or other passengers

Drivers staying alert may help decrease the number of car occupants killed in crashes.

With the high number of car occupants killed in crashes, there are additionally a large number of victims who suffer serious or life-threatening injuries. 

Some of the most common injuries from car accidents include:

• Head injuries (concussions)
• Cuts and lacerations deep enough to damage nerves or muscles
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Broken bones
• Chest injuries (damage to ribs or a sternum injury)
• Vision issues after glass shatters
• Neck injuries (whiplash)
• Internal bleeding
• Facial injuries or breaks
• Chronic back pain or other back injuries
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of limbs
• Paralysis
• Wrongful death

If you are involved in a car accident:

• Get to safety and call 911 immediately 
• If safe to do so, gather information about the vehicles and drivers involved in the crash, including the license plate number, year, make, model, and color of vehicles. 
• Ask the other driver or drivers involved for their contact information, driver’s license, insurance, and registration and take photos of these documents.
• Make a record of how the accident happened. Be as detailed as possible, and note the location, time, date, and road conditions. 
• Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including all damages to both vehicles and injuries sustained.
• Seek medical attention even if you don’t feel as though you were seriously injured.
• Contact your insurance to let them know what happened. Send them any information you collected about the driver and the accident.

Were you or a loved one injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver? You might be struggling with physical or emotional pain after losing work or time with loved ones. 

Your life might even feel like it’s been shattered. You shouldn’t have to suffer.

At C&B Law Group, our LA car accident lawyers have a 99 percent rate of successfully settling personal injury cases. We’ve helped injury victims recover compensation including:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages

Furthermore, we work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay us attorney fees until after a successful settlement.

We want to help you get the justice you deserve following a car accident. Contact us today to learn more about a free consultation.