Every day, Arizonans get into their cars to head to work, pick up their kids, or meet friends without thinking about the dangers on the road. But a new study by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety reveals a harsh reality: car accidents cost Arizona a staggering $5.9 billion every year. That’s money lost through missed work, hospital bills, car repairs, and more. For the average person, that’s like paying $817 a year for something they never asked for. Yet no dollar amount can capture the heartbreak of losing a loved one in a crash.
Why are traffic fatalities increasing in Arizona?
Arizona’s roads have become more dangerous than ever. While traffic deaths have slightly dropped nationwide, Arizona has moved in the opposite direction. In 2022 and 2023, more than 2,600 people lost their lives on state roads. This marks the highest death toll in Arizona’s history. This alarming trend makes it clear: Arizona needs stronger safety laws to protect its people.
One simple choice can mean the difference between life and death: buckling up. Half of all traffic deaths in the U.S. involve people who weren’t wearing seat belts, according to Cathy Chase, president of the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. Yet in Arizona, not wearing a seat belt is only a secondary offense. This means police can’t pull drivers over solely for not buckling up. This law sends a dangerous message that seat belts aren’t a priority.
Some other leading causes of traffic fatalities include:
- Distracted driving: Distractions (particularly from mobile devices) impair driver attention. In 2022, 3,308 people lost their lives in crashes involving distracted drivers, with nearly 290,000 people injured.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence continues to be a leading cause of fatal accidents. In 2022, drunk driving resulted in 13,524 deaths nationwide.
- Speeding: Speeding remains a leading factor in traffic fatalities. In 2022, speeding-related crashes accounted for 12,151 traffic deaths across the U.S.
- Drowsy driving: Fatigue impairs reaction times and decision-making abilities. In 2022, 693 deaths resulted from crashes involving drowsy drivers.
What safety measures could save lives?
Change is possible, and it starts with action. The study calls on Arizona lawmakers to make seat belt violations a primary offense, require all motorcycle riders to wear helmets, and ensure children ride in the back seat until they’re 12. These simple, effective steps could stop crashes from turning into tragedies.
Drivers can do their part to prevent serious and fatal Arizona car accidents by:
- Obeying posted speed limits.
- Avoiding distractions and keeping cellphones out of reach.
- Never getting behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Paying attention to traffic signals and road signs.
- Maintaining a safe following distance.
- Avoiding aggressive driving and road rage.
- Being aware of pedestrians and bicyclists.
- Keeping vehicles well maintained.
Hurt in a crash in Arizona? Our law firm can fight back!
A car accident in Arizona can be a scary yet frustrating experience. You could be shaken up from the crash while dealing with medical bills, lost income, and pushy insurance companies. However, you don't have to deal with the stress of a car accident claim alone. That's where an experienced Arizona attorney at Browne Law Group comes in. Attorney Byron Browne is committed to fighting for the rights of injured motorists and their families. He has a proven record of winning major settlements for his clients, including a $2.75 million settlement for a client injured in a drunk driving crash.
We also understand that the financial strain after a collision can be overwhelming. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront and owe us nothing unless we win your case. This allows you access to high-quality legal representation without adding to your financial burden. If you decide to work with us, our legal team will aggressively pursue every dollar you’re entitled to so you can move forward with your recovery.
Don’t wait to protect your rights. Contact us online or call our office in Gilbert, Arizona, today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our legal team will review your case, explain your potential legal options, and answer any questions you may have.
"Browne Law Group did a great job and got me exactly what our case was worth. I would recommend Byron to anyone looking for an experienced attorney with a lot of background in trial law."
— M.Y., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐