In recently-released preliminary data for 2012, the National Safety Council (NSC) finds that nationwide, motor vehicle fatalities increased five percent from 2011. This is the first increase since 2005. NSC estimates that there were 36,200 motor vehicle fatalities in 2012[1], including drivers, passengers, pedestrians and cyclists. NSC also notes a five percent increase from 2011 to 2012 in “crash injuries requiring medical attention.” Unfortunately the NSC does not differentiate between motorist, cyclist and pedestrian fatalities.

A more useful way to categorize these fatalities would be to break down the different users and make specific recommendations to improve safety for each group. Measures that improve motorist safety, for example, do not necessarily improve safety for pedestrians or cyclists.

In the tri-state region, the percentage change in the motor vehicle death toll varied from state to state between 2011 and 2012:

• Connecticut:
  • From 2011-2012, motor vehicle fatalities increased 19 percent (tying New Mexico for the third highest percentage increase in the nation).
• New Jersey:[2]
  • From 2011-2012, motor vehicle fatalities decreased 5 percent.
• New York:
  • From 2011-2012, motor vehicle fatalities increased 2 percent.

As NSC points out, the true cost of a motor vehicle crash, fatal or otherwise, goes far beyond “devastating human loss.” Motor vehicle crashes “present a significant national cost in lost wages and productivity, medical expenses, administrative expenses, employer costs and property damages.” NSC finds that motor vehicle crashes that resulted in fatalities, injuries and/or damaged property cost the nation $276.6 billion – up five percent from 2011.

For more information on pedestrian fatalities in the tri-state area, look out for TSTC’s 2012 Most Dangerous Roads for Walking report, coming out soon.