Houston Auto Accident Statistics & Cost
According to the CDC, car accidents are a leading cause of death in the U.S., causing about 100 deaths per day. More than 2.5 million people were treated in emergency rooms across the country due to auto accidents in 2015.
Car Accident Stats in the U.S.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tracks car accident data across the United States. Their data reveals the staggering scope of auto accidents in our country:
- 5.25 million police-reported motor vehicle accidents occurred in 2020
- Approximately 2.2 million people were injured in these accidents
- 38,824 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2020
These numbers represent a significant public health crisis. Behind every statistic is a real person and family dealing with the aftermath of an accident, including physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship.
Car Accident Statistics in Texas
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reports alarming statistics about auto accidents in our state. Texas consistently ranks among the deadliest states for traffic fatalities.
Key fatal auto accident statistics for Texas include:
- 3,896 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in Texas in 2020
- 958 of those fatalities involved alcohol-related crashes
- 482 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes
Harris County, which includes Houston, is particularly dangerous for drivers. Harris County statistics include:
- 466 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes
- 2,315 people were seriously injured
- 122 fatal crashes involved alcohol
- 41 fatal crashes involved large commercial trucks
Costs of Auto Accidents
The NHTSA’s economic impact report reveals the staggering financial toll of auto accidents in the United States. Motor vehicle crashes cost the nation $242 billion in economic damages annually, including medical costs, lost productivity, legal and court costs, emergency services, property damage, and insurance administration.
When quality-of-life costs are factored in, including the value of lost lives and the decrease in quality of life due to injuries, the total cost rises to $836 billion annually. These figures demonstrate the massive burden that auto accidents place on individuals, families, and society as a whole.
Alcohol-related crashes alone account for $52.5 billion in economic costs and represent a significant portion of the overall toll. Distracted driving also contributes billions in costs each year, as more drivers engage in dangerous behaviors like texting behind the wheel.
If you have been injured in a car accident, the costs can quickly become overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation expenses, and property damage can add up rapidly. An experienced auto accident attorney can help you pursue the full compensation you deserve. Contact Maida Law Firm today for a free consultation.
Car Accident Statistics FAQs
Houston consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for car accidents. Texas Department of Transportation data shows that one person is injured in a car accident every 2 minutes and 34 seconds on Texas roads.
The most common causes of car accidents in Texas include distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, failure to yield the right of way, and running red lights or stop signs.
The cost of a car accident varies widely depending on the severity. According to NHTSA data, the average economic cost of a car accident fatality is over $1.7 million. Even non-fatal accidents can result in significant medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
If you cannot afford medical treatment after a car accident, Maida Law Firm can help. Many medical providers offer treatment on a lien basis, meaning they are paid from your settlement. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront.
Injured in a Car Accident?
Our experienced Houston auto accident attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (713) 785-9484 for a free case evaluation.