Dallas Car Accident Statistics 2020

In 2018, there was a reportable crash every 58 seconds in Texas. But in 2020, people spent more time than ever around the house. So car crashes and fatalities decreased, right? Unfortunately, the answer is no, read on for details on Dallas car accident statistics in 2020 and beyond.

In 2020, fewer people on the road caused a car accident, but Dallas car accident statistics show fatalities spiked in Texas and across the US. Apparently, the fewer people on the road, the more likely motorists are to speed, lose control of their automobile, and crash.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also noted that alcohol and drug use increased nationwide during the pandemic. Before the pandemic, 50% of drivers in serious crashes tested positive for alcohol or drugs. By late 2020, 65% of drivers in serious or fatal crashes tested positive.

Unsurprisingly, cities and towns with the highest populations have the highest number of traffic accidents. In a year when people believed they were “safer at home,” it looks like a Texas road was one of the most dangerous places they could have been.

Car Wreck Lawyer Dallas car accident statistics 2020

Dallas Car Accident Statistics 2020

Between March and December 2020, 480 people died in car crashes in Dallas, Denton, Collin, and Tarrant counties. Compared to the exact same timespan in 2019, that’s an increase of 72 deaths. Less traffic during the pandemic contributed to higher speeds, meaning the crashes that occurred were more serious.

In 2020 in Dallas, there were 31,976 total crashes that included:

  • 205 fatal crashes, leading to 225 fatalities
  • 816 suspected serious crashes, leading to 959 suspected serious injuries
  • 3,237 non-incapacitating crashes, leading to 4,374 non-incapacitating injuries
  • 5,780 possible injury crashes, leading to 9,421 possible injuries
  • 19,572 non-injury crashes, leading to 54,833 non-injured vehicle occupants
  • 2,366 unknown severity crashes, leading to 11,041 individuals with unknown injuries

Source:  Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT); Texas Motor Vehicle Crash Statistics – 2020; Crashes and Injuries by Cities and Towns.

With regard to alcohol-related crashes in Dallas in 2020, there were 868 total crashes that included:

  • 53 fatal crashes, leading to 64 fatalities
  • 61 suspected serious crashes, leading to 97 suspected serious injuries
  • 158 non-incapacitating crashes, leading to 242 non-incapacitating injuries
  • 192 possible injury crashes, leading to 373 possible injuries
  • 382 non-injury crashes, leading to 1,199 non-injured vehicle occupants
  • 22 unknown severity crashes, leading to 77 individuals with unknown injuries

Source:  Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT); Texas Motor Vehicle Crash Statistics – 2020; DUI (Alcohol) Crashes and Injuries Cities and Towns.

Early on, it looked like fewer car crashes and injuries might be a pandemic silver lining. Unfortunately, the numbers don’t lie. When Texas motorists hit the road in 2020, they were more likely to speed and operate under the influence, resulting in more crashes and deaths.

In terms of overall Texas car accident statistics in 2020, there were:

  • 3,896 fatalities in motor vehicle crashes in the state of Texas in 2020, which was 7.5% more than the 3,623 deaths in 2019
  • 1.5 deaths occurred per hundred million vehicle miles traveled, an increase of 19% over the 1.26 rate in 2019
  • 12,107 serious injury crashes comprising 14,656 seriously injured individuals
  • 1 person was killed every 2 hours and 15 minutes
  • 1 person was injured every 2 minutes and 34 seconds
  • 1 crash was reported by the police every 1 minute and 7 seconds
  • 205,498 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes
  • 482 motorcyclist fatalities
  • 717 pedestrian fatalities
  • 79 pedalcyclist fatalities
  • 958 DUI-related motor vehicle crash fatalities

2020 car accident statistics in Texas

2021: Dallas Car Accident Statistics So Far

In 2021, more people are hitting the road nationwide. Midway through the year, how do Dallas car accident statistics stack up to last year? According to the Crash Records Information System, there were 212, 838 total Texas crashes, 13,656 Dallas crashes, and 415 alcohol-related Dallas crashes by May 2021.

Also in 2021, the TDOT revealed that pedestrian deaths now account for one in five traffic fatalities. Along with Texas car crashes, injuries, and fatalities, pedestrian deaths are also on the rise.

There are several leading causes of pedestrian fatalities in Texas:

  • Motorists failing to yield the right of way
  • Driving distracted or driving too fast
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol
  • Pedestrians failing to follow traffic safety laws

Another trend worth noting: wrong-way crash fatalities are increasing. According to AAA, Texas leads the country in wrong-way driving accidents. Common factors that lead to wrong-way driving include alcohol impairment, driving without a passenger, and older age. A recent AAA study revealed that 60% of wrong-way drivers had a BAC (blood alcohol content) greater than or equal to .08 (1,757 drivers). These Dallas car accident statistics highlight the need to be a defensive driver on Dallas roadways.

In 2021 in Dallas, there were 35,355 total crashes that included:

  • 206 fatal crashes, leading to 227 fatalities
  • 1,075816 suspected serious crashes, leading to 1,284 suspected serious injuries
  • 3,928 non-incapacitating crashes, leading to 5,333 non-incapacitating injuries
  • 5,876 possible injury crashes, leading to 9,639 possible injuries
  • 21,644 non-injury crashes, leading to 61,492 non-injured vehicle occupants
  • 2,626 unknown severity crashes, leading to 13,010 individuals with unknown injuries

Source: Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT); Texas Motor Vehicle Crash Statistics – 2021; Crashes and Injuries by Cities and Towns

With regard to alcohol-related crashes in Dallas in 2021, there were 868 total crashes that included:

  • 53 fatal crashes, leading to 64 fatalities
  • 83 suspected serious crashes, leading to 129 suspected serious injuries
  • 206 non-incapacitating crashes, leading to 349 non-incapacitating injuries
  • 175 possible injury crashes, leading to 350 possible injuries
  • 521 non-injury crashes, leading to 1,463 non-injured vehicle occupants
  • 27 unknown severity crashes, leading to 116 individuals with unknown injuries

Source: Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT); Texas Motor Vehicle Crash Statistics – 2021; DUI (Alcohol) Crashes and Injuries Cities and Towns.

Dallas Car Crash Injury Lawyer

These Dallas car accident statistics do not lie – as the population in metropolitan areas increases, so do traffic accidents and fatalities. Even when laws and precautions are followed to the letter, car crashes still happen. If you or a loved one were in a Dallas car accident, Thompson Law’s injury lawyers can help.

At Thompson Law, we offer free consultations. What’s more, you won’t owe us a dime unless we settle your auto injury case. If someone else’s negligence led to your auto accident injury, we want to talk to you. A skilled legal team with personal injury experience has the expertise and know-how to take on difficult insurance companies so you get the compensation you deserve.

After sustaining injuries, the Texas statute of limitations directs you to file your injury case within two years from the date of injury. You or your loved ones do not have to worry about losing your case because you can’t find a competent lawyer.

Thompson Law has a team of skilled injury lawyers ready to come to you wherever you are. We are a small, family-run firm with a large pool of resources; we personally handle all cases and establish close working relationships with our clients.

Call us at (844) 308-8180 today at no charge to discuss your accident. We’re available 24/7 to get started on your case. Thompson Law is family-owned and operated, and we’re eager to help make sure your rights are protected.

Call us today and get a lawyer in just 15 minutes – Hablamos Español!

Dallas car accident statistics 2020 from No Win No Fee lawyer

Dallas Auto Accident Attorney FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is it worth getting an attorney for a minor car accident?

A minor car accident can turn into a major hassle if not handled properly. There are several reasons you should hire an auto accident attorney, including hidden injuries and the potential for the other party to file a claim against you. An auto accident attorney is prepared to gather evidence, determine liability, and build a strong case.

How do I maximize my car accident settlement?

A Dallas auto accident attorney will help you maximize your settlement by making sure you file your case promptly and effectively. They will build a strong case for your entitlement to compensation for medical bills, losses, and pain and suffering.

What is the personal injury statute of limitations in Texas?

In Texas, you have two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit in the civil court system. If you miss this filing, the person you’re attempting to sue will probably file a “motion to dismiss,” reminding the court of your failure to properly file.

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Thompson Law Guarantee

Thompson Law receives an attorney fee and you pay no legal fees as our client unless we pay you. Thompson Law has 350 years of combined experience in legal representation and has won over $1.8 billion dollars in cash settlements for our clients. We master the art of managing client cases with empathy, compassion, respect and, of course, prodigious skill. Contact us today for a free, risk-free consultation to discuss your accident and your options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an auto accident. If you have been injured in an accident, call now to get the help you need.