Massachusetts Auto Accident Statistics

The year 2008 saw the lowest number of auto accident fatalities in Massachusetts in years, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Although the death rate was the lowest it has been in at least five years, car accidents still cost the state and its residents billions of dollars in medical expenses, lost wages, funeral bills, and property damage. What many people don't know is that they and their families may be entitled to damages for the injuries they sustained in the accident.

Auto Accident Fatalities

According to FARS data, the number of deaths caused by auto accidents has fluctuated during the past five years. The year 2004 saw the highest number of deaths, while the year 2008 saw the lowest number of deaths.

• 2008: 363
• 2007: 434
• 2006: 429
• 2005: 441
• 2004: 476

Types of Persons Killed

FARS includes information about the types of persons that were involved in auto accident fatalities; according to their statistics, drivers of cars had the highest death rates.

• Drivers: 177
• Passengers: 55
• Motorcyclists: 42
• Pedestrians: 75
• Pedalcyclists: 10
• Other/Unknown: 4

Auto Accident Deaths and Age

It has been known for years that teenage and young adult drivers are involved in a significant percentage of auto accident crashes and fatalities. In Massachusetts, teens and young adults aged 16 to 20 were no exception.

• 15 and under: 7
• 16-20: 55
• 21-24: 36
• 25-34: 56
• 35-44:35
• 45-54: 58
• 55-64: 42
• 65-74: 20
• 75+: 54

Contact an Auto Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been involved in auto accident, it is in your best interest to hire the services of a skilled personal injury attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can provide you with the best chance of obtaining a positive settlement from your insurance company, the other driver's insurance company, or another party.