Every day, thousands of Americans are injured in motor vehicle accidents, and a large portion of these incidents are preventable. To raise awareness about the dangers of impaired, distracted, and reckless driving, December has been designated National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. But this issue isn’t seasonal. The effects of poor driving decisions are felt year-round, across every state and community.
Contrary to popular belief, many car accidents, especially those involving impaired or distracted driving, don’t just happen late at night. Data shows that a significant number of collisions occur in broad daylight, often during routine commutes or errands. No matter when they happen, the physical and emotional toll of these crashes can be devastating.
In this study by John Foy & Associates, we explore how motor vehicle accidents affect the human body, how much they cost Americans each year, and what steps drivers can take to protect themselves and others on the road.
Car Accidents by the Numbers
In 2022, more than 2.78 million people were injured in traffic-related accidents across the U.S. These incidents ranked as the third leading cause of non-fatal injuries among people ages 1 to 85, behind only falls and accidental strikes from objects.
Those injuries led to approximately 2.76 million emergency room visits, with a total medical cost exceeding $18 billion. Leading causes included:
- Distracted driving, which accounted for 12% of all crashes
- Drunk driving, especially prevalent on weekends and during major events
- Speeding, a constant risk factor across all demographics
Drunk driving alone caused an estimated 300,000 injuries in 2022. Certain states, like Mississippi and Georgia, consistently report high rates of alcohol-related crashes. In Georgia, over 10% of all traffic collisions involve impaired drivers.
Common Injuries From Motor Vehicle Accidents
No two accidents are the same, and injuries can range from minor to life-threatening depending on factors like speed, vehicle type, and point of impact. For example, a collision with a commercial truck is far more likely to result in traumatic injuries than a low-speed fender bender.
The most common crash-related injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Concussions and head trauma
- Whiplash and neck strain
- Spinal injuries and herniated discs
- Broken ribs and collarbones
- Fractures in the arms, legs, hips, or pelvis
- Soft tissue injuries like sprains and bruises
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
In addition to physical trauma, many survivors face lasting psychological effects such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and even amaxophobia, a fear of riding in or driving vehicles.
The Importance of Immediate Medical Care
Even if you feel fine after a collision, some injuries may not present symptoms right away. Delayed care can allow small issues, like soft tissue damage or internal bleeding, to develop into long-term or permanent disabilities.
Seeking immediate medical attention not only improves your chances of a full recovery, but it also creates essential documentation for any legal or insurance claims you may need to file later.
What to Do After a Car Accident
If you’re involved in a crash, taking the right steps can make a significant difference in both your health and your ability to seek compensation:
- Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
- Move to a safe location, but remain at the scene.
- Call 911 and wait for emergency responders.
- Exchange insurance and contact information with the other party.
- Document the scene—take photos, record details, and gather witness info if available.
If the other driver flees the scene, avoid chasing them. Instead, focus on noting their license plate and providing that information to law enforcement.
Insurance Claims and Legal Support
After a serious accident, you may be entitled to compensation, but don’t assume the insurance company is on your side. Insurers often try to reduce payouts by undervaluing injuries, downplaying medical expenses, or blaming victims for the crash.
That’s why working with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney can make a huge difference. We help clients understand their rights, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers. If necessary, we’re ready to take your case to court. Under Georgia Code § 9-3-33, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
How to Stay Safe on the Road
While you can’t control the behavior of others, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a crash. We recommend:
- Always wearing your seatbelt
- Following speed limits
- Avoiding phone use and other distractions
- Keeping your vehicle well-maintained
- Staying alert to changing traffic patterns and weather conditions
- Maintaining a safe following distance
Additional tips include adjusting your headrest properly, sitting a safe distance from the airbag, and keeping your car interior clutter-free to minimize risks during a sudden stop or impact.
Moving Toward a Safer Future
Motor vehicle accidents can happen to anyone, but they don’t have to define your future. With the right information, smart driving habits, and a strong legal team behind you, it’s possible to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Whether you’re navigating your recovery or preparing to file a claim, know that support is available, and you don’t have to go through it alone.