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NHTSA reported these numbers for
2006 for the United States:
TRAFFIC
CRASH VICTIMS |
| |
Killed |
Injured |
| Drivers |
22,830 |
1,666,000 |
| Passengers |
9,156 |
709,000 |
| Unknown |
106 |
|
| Motorcycle
Riders |
4,810 |
88,000 |
| Pedestrians |
4,784 |
61,000 |
| Pedalcyclists |
773 |
44,000 |
| Other/Unknown |
183 |
7,000 |
| Total |
42,642 |
2,575,000 |
That translates to killing (42,642) the entire population
of San Marcos, Texas, or injuring (2,575,000) the entire
population of San Antonio TWICE.
That is the bad news. The good news is that better educated
and safety-conscious Americans can save lives and reduce
the economic loss. Traffic collisions take an enormous toll
in both human suffering and property damage, but it is something
that can be changed.
Pretty bleak statistics, but according to NHTSA there was
a slight downward trend in 2006. Although, 42,642 people
lost their lives that year in motor vehicle crashes, it
was a decrease of 2% from 2005. A good reduction. Some of
this improvement is likely due to better vehicle safety
devices (airbags, seat belts, etc.), but better informed
drivers must also have played a part in the reduction.
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