Increasing Number of Arizonans Dying in Traffic Crashes
Phoenix, Ariz. July 25, 2007. In Arizona and across the country, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of deaths across all age groups, claiming over 1,000 lives statewide and over 43,000 lives per year nationwide. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently released its annual assessment of motor vehicle crash fatalities and injuries for 2006. Unlike the 28 states that saw a reduction in the number of roadway deaths, Arizona saw a nine percent increase in roadway fatalities.
The NHTSA report broke down highway deaths by state. According to the report, Arizona's death toll increased by nine percent with an increase of 109 fatalities, from 1,179 in 2005 to 1,288 in 2006. Nationwide however, motor vehicle-related fatalities and injuries declined from 43,510 in 2005 to 42,642 in 2006, the lowest level it has been in five years.
“Over three people per day died on Arizona roads last year,” said Linda Gorman, public affairs manager for AAA Arizona. “Arizona’s rapidly growing population is one of the reasons we are seeing an increasing number of people dying on our roadways. From 2005 to 2006, the number of vehicles registered in Arizona increased by over 265,000.”. “However, this is not an excuse for the growing number of fatalities on our roads, as most motor vehicle related deaths and injuries are completely preventable through the use of seatbelts, helmets and child safety seats.”
Motorcycle deaths continued to rise for the ninth straight year across the state and country, and exceeded pedestrian deaths for the first time since 1975. The figures show 4,810 motorcycle deaths in 2006, compared with 4,576 in 2005. In Arizona, motorcycle crashes account for about two percent of all vehicle crashes; however, the state saw a 27 percent increase in crashes from 2004 to 2005 and a 50 percent increase from 2001 to 2005. A breakdown of 2006 motorcycle statistics by state is not yet available.
“Motorcycle registrations have skyrocketed over the last decade and unfortunately, so have the number of fatal crashes involving riders,” said Gorman. “Arizona does not currently require riders to wear protective helmets. Riders who choose to not wear helmets and protective gear are dramatically increasing their chances of becoming a tragic statistic.”
The report also cites alcohol-related crashes as a leading cause of motor vehicle fatalities, claiming 17,602 deaths in 2006, compared to 17,590 deaths in 2005. While fatalities in this category only slightly increased over the year, it is important to note that alcohol-related deaths account for over 41 percent of all traffic fatalities across the country.
In an attempt to reduce roadway fatalities across the state, AAA Arizona would like to offer the following tips to motorists:
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Stay informed. Make sure you know and adhere to all Arizona driving laws. Laws are added and changed each year, so be sure to refresh your memory with the most current information often.
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Buckle up! Whether you are traveling a short or long distance, be sure to buckle your seat belt each and every time you get into a motor vehicle.
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If you ride a motorcycle, always wear protective gear, including a helmet that meets the Department of Transportation’s standards.
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Stay focused. Avoid engaging in activities that takes your attention away from the road, such as eating, applying make-up, talking on a cell phone or text messaging.
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Never drive while tired, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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When driving with children in your car, be sure to have the proper car seats for their weight. If you are unsure how to secure a car seat in your vehicle, visit your local fire station for assistance.
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Drive defensively. Drive proactively and try to avoid dangerous situations before they happen.
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Slow down. Driving above recommended speeds considerably cuts ability to react to unexpected hazards.
AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 750,000 Arizona members. Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists. Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. |
