Alabama Car Accident Statistics: Where the Most Accidents Happen

Taking a Closer Look at Alabama Car Accident Statistics

When it comes to car accidents, statistics show that Alabama has higher rates than other states. Despite these statistics, the number of crash fatalities was slightly down in 2024 compared to previous years. 

When looking at these statistics, it’s important to look at where these accidents are taking place and the reasons why.  At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we are constantly looking at these trends. Our team is committed to understanding why and how these accidents are occurring as we represent car accident victims and help them get back on their feet. 

Alabama Car Accident Statistics at a Glance

Alabama car accident trends show that in 2024, there were 140,118 crashes, with 967 of them resulting in a fatality, and leaving more than 36,000 injured. This is down from more than 143,000 crashes in 2023, with 975 fatalities, and more than 37,000 injuries.

Statistics also show that Saturday is the most deadly day on the roads, and the hours between 5 and 6pm are the most dangerous.

What is Causing Alabama Car Accidents?

Despite the drop in accident numbers in accident-related fatalities in 2024, Alabama continues to struggle with issues that are leading to these crashes. 

Impaired driving is a major factor in Alabama car accidents, with 187 fatalities involving suspected alcohol or drug use. People not wearing seatbelts also contributed to the number of fatal accidents, with statistics showing that nearly 60 percent who died in an accident did not have a seatbelt on.

Distracted drivers on their cell phones are also a threat to the roadways, as well as younger drivers under the age of 25.

Rural vs. Urban Areas: Where are the Most Accidents Occurring?

Besides looking at the causes of car accidents in Alabama, it’s also important to look at where they are happening. 

Rural roads in Alabama tend to be more dangerous, with more fatal accidents happening there versus urban roads. But urban roads tend to have more accidents overall. 

It’s believed that more deadly accidents happen on rural roads for several reasons:

• Drivers going faster
• Lack of infrastructure
• Higher-risk driving behaviors

Speeding Drivers

Drivers tend to speed on rural roads because there is more open space than on urban roads. With fewer cars, there may be less enforcement of speed limits, leading drivers to go just as fast as they want.

Speeding on rural roads can be especially dangerous because there can be more twists and turns, as these roads are not meant for high traffic or speed. When drivers are going too fast, they can easily lose control of their vehicles as well, leading to accidents.

Lack of Infrastructure

Rural roads tend to have fewer safety features like lights and guardrails. There tend to be fewer stop lights and stop signs, leading people to drive more recklessly. On urban roads, you’ll see more lights and signs, forcing people to stop and slow down. This may be one of the reasons why there are fewer fatalities on urban roads.

High-Risk Behavior

When people are driving on rural roads, they may have a false sense of security. Since there are fewer cars, they may think that they don’t have to wear a seatbelt. Also, they may be traveling shorter distances and may think this means they don’t need a seatbelt. As we all know, all of these assumptions are false. Unfortunately, these beliefs can contribute to more car accidents on Alabama roads.

Longer Response Time

Because rural areas tend to be farther away from medical facilities, accident victims may not get the immediate treatment they need. When crashes happen on urban highways, emergency responders can typically get to the scene quickly. They can treat the victim at the scene and get them to a nearby hospital. This short response and treatment time can make all the difference when it comes to saving lives.

When crashes happen on rural roads, it can take emergency responders longer to get to the scene and to transport victims to the hospital. These crucial minutes can make a difference in the outcome of the accident.

Steps to Take if You’ve Been in An Accident

No matter where your accident occurred or the reason behind it, it’s important for you to take the right steps immediately following an accident so that you can best protect yourself.

Always Check for Injuries

Assess your condition and the condition of any passengers. Even if injuries are not obvious right away, be sure to call 911 so that everyone can be evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries don’t manifest themselves until well after the accident is over. It is important to have documentation of medical assistance.

Gather Evidence

If you are physically able, be sure to gather evidence such as photographs of the accident scene. These can help if your case reaches litigation. Be sure not to move any evidence in the process, as the accident scene should be preserved for investigators.

Exchange Information with the Other Driver & Get a Police Report

When police arrive at the scene, they will write a report that will include your information and that of the other parties involved. All of this information is important when it comes to determining liability, filing an insurance claim, and providing evidence.

Hire a Private Injury Lawyer

If you were injured in an accident, you want to contact a private injury lawyer. They can assess your case, deal with insurance companies, and advise you about the best steps moving forward.

Have You Been in An Accident? Call Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law Today

If you have been involved in an accident, contact Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law. We help victims of Alabama car accidents get the justice they deserve. As a car accident lawyer in Alabama, we have recovered over $1 billion in compensation over the years. Let us get to work for you. Contact us today and discover why car accident victims have been trusting our law firm with their cases since 1991.

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