According to the latest data from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), car accident fatalities in Arizona decreased last year statewide. However, traffic safety officials are urging Arizona residents to remain cautious while driving.
"Every fatality represents someone's loved one," ADOT Director Jennifer Toth emphasized in an interview with Arizona Family News, CBS 5. "We need everyone using the roads to work together to reduce these preventable crashes, and we're working with partners around the state on safety strategies to help meet ADOT's vision of safely connecting people."
Arizona's alarming car accident statistics
The numbers don't lie—car accidents in Arizona remain frequent, serious, and often deadly. According to ADOT data, in 2023, there were 122,247 car accidents statewide, leading to 1,307 fatalities and 54,198 injuries. That's one accident every four minutes and 18 seconds throughout the year.
Are car crashes becoming more common in Arizona?
The short answer? Yes, and not only are car crashes in Arizona becoming more common, but they're also becoming more deadly. While the number of car accident deaths in 2023 was slightly lower than in 2022 (1,307 deaths compared to 1,320), these figures are significantly higher than in previous years. In fact, 2023 and 2022 marked the two highest years for car accident fatalities in Arizona since the state began tracking motor vehicle deaths in 1925.
A closer look at what's driving the numbers
While car accidents can happen for various reasons, certain contributing factors consistently rank as the most common causes of crashes in Arizona:
- Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit was a major factor in Arizona car accidents in 2023, causing 446 deaths and 20,682 injuries. High-speed collisions reduce reaction time and increase the severity of crashes, making them particularly deadly.
- Drunk driving: Alcohol-impaired driving led to 332 deaths and 3,864 injuries in 2023, setting record highs for Arizona. Most of these accidents occur at night and on weekends when drivers are more likely to be under the influence.
- Distracted driving: Distractions such as using cell phones, texting, or adjusting the radio contributed to 8,657 accidents and at least 62 deaths in 2023. The actual numbers could be even higher, as many drivers don't admit to being distracted at the time of a crash.
- Drowsy driving: Fatigued drivers who fell asleep at the wheel caused 1,528 accidents in 2023, leading to 606 injuries and 10 deaths. Drowsy driving is often as dangerous as driving under the influence, with similar consequences.
- Disregarding traffic signals: Failing to stop at stop signs or red lights resulted in 5,864 accidents, 2,592 injuries, and 57 deaths in 2023. Ignoring traffic signals remains a serious problem on Arizona roads.
- Aggressive driving: Behaviors such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, and other forms of aggressive driving contributed to 338 accidents, resulting in 109 injuries and four deaths in 2023. Aggressive driving not only endangers the driver but also puts others on the road at risk.
How to prevent collisions and stay safe on the road
While negligent driving remains a concern, there are steps drivers can take to prevent accidents and ensure safety for everyone on the road. Key safe driving tips include:
- Slow down and obey posted speed limits: Adhering to speed limits helps you maintain control of your vehicle and provides more time to react to unexpected situations.
- Never drink and drive: Alcohol impairs your ability to drive safely. Always have a plan to get home—use a designated driver, ridesharing service, or public transportation instead of getting behind the wheel.
- Focus on the road and put down your cell phone: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Keep your attention on the road and avoid using your phone or engaging in other distractions while driving.
- Take a break if you feel tired: Again, drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Pull over and rest before continuing your journey if you're feeling fatigued.
- Don't tailgate or drive aggressively: Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating and weaving through traffic, increase the risk of accidents. Maintain a calm, patient demeanor behind the wheel.
- Leave enough space between your vehicle and others: Keeping a safe distance from other cars, cyclists, and pedestrians ensures you have enough time to stop or avoid a collision if necessary.
Why you need an attorney after an Arizona car accident
You might think you don't need an attorney if you were injured in an accident that was someone else's fault. Think again. What might seem like a straightforward case can quickly turn into a tough legal battle. Sometimes, it's the at-fault driver trying to shift blame. Other times, it's the insurance companies doing everything they can to minimize or deny your claim.
No matter what legal obstacles you face after being injured in a crash, an Arizona car accident attorney at Browne Law Group can fight for you every step of the way. Our case results speak volumes, especially when it comes to car accidents. For example, we secured a $2.75 million settlement for one car accident injury victim.
Don't let the insurance company push you around after your car accident. Get Browne Law Group in your corner. Contact us today for a free consultation at our Gilbert, AZ office—or we can come to you.