Stephens Law Firm | June 25, 2024 | Car Accidents
Our car accident lawyers understand the inherent risks of driving. Despite what statistics tell us, there’s something familiar about being in a car you control. Even when you understand the science behind flying, being in a metal tube soaring tens of thousands of feet above the ground doesn’t seem like it should be safe. The truth is, your odds of dying in a plane crash are significantly lower than the odds of dying by any other mode of transportation.
Despite what statistics tell us, how much safer is flying than driving? There’s something familiar about being in a car you control. Even when you understand the science behind flying, being in a metal tube soaring tens of thousands of feet above the ground doesn’t seem like it should be safe. The truth is, your odds of dying in a plane crash are significantly lower than the odds of dying by any other mode of transportation.
Planes vs. Automobiles: Which Is Safest?
Technology keeps making all types of transportation safer, but some methods will always be safer than others. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that globally, 1.19 million people die each year in motor vehicle accidents. In 2021, fatal traffic fatalities reached a 16-year high in the U.S., with an estimated 42,915 deaths.
The top causes of fatal auto accidents include:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Speeding
- Poor weather conditions
- Reckless and aggressive driving
- Distracted driving
Non-use of safety equipment like seat belts, child restraints, and motorcycle helmets also contributes to the number of fatalities.
People of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds are at risk for a fatal auto accident. WHO reports that two-thirds of fatal traffic accidents occur among people aged 18 to 59 years old.
How Often Do Planes Crash?
Plane travel is safer than it has been at any time in history. The most recent global safety report from the International Civil Aviation Organization confirms that fatalities from aircraft accidents have dropped by more than 65% since 2020. According to the CAO, your odds of dying in a plane crash are one in 11 million. Compare that to the odds of being in a car crash, which averages around one in 5,000.
Several factors contribute to the growing safety of air travel, including stricter regulations and improved technologies. Technological developments that allow for less manual navigation are one of the biggest reasons for safety improvement. Changes in the training and equipping of air traffic controllers, flight crew, and other on-ground workers have also improved airplane safety.
What Is the Most Dangerous Mode of Transportation?
While auto travel is far more dangerous than flying, cars are not the most dangerous way to travel. Passenger injury rates for motorcycles far exceed those of cars and trucks. Per 100 million passenger miles, there are an estimated 366.9 motorcycle injuries, 48 car and truck injuries, and zero air travel injuries.
Is flying safe? Yes, it is the safest way to travel.
Wrapping It Up: How To Make Driving Safer
Every day, millions of Americans commute to and from work, drop kids off at school, and use their cars to run errands. The average citizen drives around 13,500 miles every year. Since driving is unavoidable for most people, the solution is to make car travel safer.
You can improve safety for yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road by following these recommendations:
- Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Wear your seat belt and make sure children are in the appropriate restraints
- Do not text or use your phone while driving
- Slow down when weather or road conditions are poor
- Be a courteous driver — don’t participate in road rage
- Follow all traffic laws
- Be a defensive driver, and pay attention to your surroundings
You can’t control other drivers, and some accidents are unavoidable, but you can increase the safety of your car travel by following these tips.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Fort Worth, TX
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 406
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
109 York Ave Suite #201
Weatherford, TX 76086
(817) 409-7000
