In 2015, 562 people died in 522 car accidents in New Jersey, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Nationwide, 35,092 people lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents that same year. Studies show that, overall, more men die each year in fatal car accidents than women, although the gap between the two genders is narrowing.
Some states more risky than others
Although men outnumber women when it comes to involvement in fatal car crashes in all states, statistics show that some states pose greater risks than others. The two Dakotas lead the country in the number of fatal crashes involving male drivers: a total of 82.7 percent in North Dakota and 82 percent in South Dakota.
The highly-populated Garden State did not make the top ten list of riskiest states with male drivers, nor did it rank as a state with the greatest fatality rates for passengers under the age of 16 years.
Male drivers
Statistically, men drive more miles than women each year. They also participate in risky behavior behind the wheel more frequently than women, such as failure to use seat belts, speeding, and driving while impaired. Car accidents involving male drivers tend to be more severe than those involving female drivers.
Female drivers
Although male drivers outnumber female drivers on the roads, in accidents of equal severity, women have a greater likelihood of dying or becoming injured.
The age factor
While overall, the per capita crash rate was greater for males than females in 2015, the highest rate of crash fatalities was among males age 20-24 and men over 85. In females, those age 12 and under had the lowest fatality rate. Studies show that, as drivers age, the fatality risk between genders diminishes.
Motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents
Industry reports indicate that motorcycle fatalities have risen among both genders since 1975, with the number more than doubling since 1997. Both pedestrian and bicycle fatalities saw a decline for the period of 1975 to 2014, but they witnessed an increased from 2014 to 2015. Pedestrian deaths of both genders has continued to increase since 2013.
We understand your loss
At Lomurro Law in Monmouth County, we understand the pain of losing a loved one. Losing a loved one in a fatal accident can be particularly traumatic. Our personal injury attorneys are compassionate, caring, and dedicated to fighting on behalf of surviving family members for just compensation. Contact a member of our team today at 732-482-9285 or online to schedule a free confidential consultation to discuss your case and available options. Our offices are conveniently located in Freehold and East Brunswick. Don’t delay; we can help.