How Many Children Die In Car Accidents?

Writing By /
Brenton Armour
UX/UI Designer at - Adobe

Brenton Armour, the visionary founder and lead attorney at InjuryLawsuitHelper, boasts an impressive 15-year track record in personal injury law. His remarkable expertise spans cases...Read more

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of death globally, and children are not spared from this tragic reality. Every year, thousands of children lose their lives in car accidents, leaving families and communities devastated. The thought of losing a child in such a preventable manner is heart-wrenching, and it begs the question, how many children die in car accidents?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, 636 children under the age of 13 died in motor vehicle crashes in the United States alone. This statistic is alarming and emphasizes the need for increased road safety measures to protect our children. In this article, we will delve deeper into this topic, exploring the causes of child car accidents, how to prevent them, and what to do in the event of an accident.

How Many Children Die in Car Accidents?
On average, around 700 children aged 12 years and younger die in car accidents each year in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Car accidents are a leading cause of death for children in the United States, and many of these deaths can be prevented by properly using car seats, booster seats, and seat belts.

How Many Children Die in Car Accidents?

How Many Children Die in Car Accidents?

Car accidents are a leading cause of death for children in many parts of the world. The tragic reality is that every year, thousands of children lose their lives in car accidents, leaving families devastated and communities in mourning. In this article, we will explore the statistics on child fatalities in car accidents, the reasons behind these accidents, and what can be done to prevent them.

Child Fatality Statistics in Car Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in the United States, an average of three children die every day in car accidents. In 2019, a total of 739 children under the age of 13 were killed in car accidents in the US. Of these, 220 children were not properly restrained in car seats or seat belts at the time of the accident.

Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 186,300 children under the age of 18 die every year as a result of road traffic crashes. This means that more than 500 children die every day around the world due to car accidents.

Reasons for Child Fatalities in Car Accidents

Several factors contribute to child fatalities in car accidents. One of the most significant factors is the lack of proper restraint systems. Using an appropriate car seat or seat belt can reduce the risk of death or serious injury by as much as 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers.

Another common factor is distracted driving. Drivers who are using their phones, eating, or dealing with other distractions are more likely to be involved in accidents. Speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and not following traffic laws are other common causes of accidents that can lead to child fatalities.

Preventing Child Fatalities in Car Accidents

There are several steps that parents and caregivers can take to prevent child fatalities in car accidents. The first step is to ensure that children are always properly restrained in car seats or seat belts that are appropriate for their age, height, and weight. Parents should also follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and using car seats correctly.

Avoiding distracted driving and following traffic laws are also critical steps to preventing accidents that can result in child fatalities. Parents should lead by example and always prioritize safe driving practices when their children are in the car.

In addition, parents should educate their children about road safety from an early age. Teaching children about the importance of wearing seat belts, looking both ways before crossing the street, and other safety measures can help them develop good habits that can protect them throughout their lives.

Benefits of Preventing Child Fatalities in Car Accidents

Preventing child fatalities in car accidents has many benefits. First and foremost, it saves lives and prevents families from experiencing the devastating loss of a child. It also reduces the burden on healthcare systems and prevents the emotional and financial costs associated with serious injuries.

In addition, preventing child fatalities in car accidents can reduce the number of absences from school and work due to injuries or hospitalization. It can also improve the overall quality of life for families and communities by reducing the trauma and stress associated with accidents.

Conclusion

Child fatalities in car accidents are a tragic reality that affects families and communities around the world. By following simple safety measures, such as using appropriate car seats or seat belts, avoiding distracted driving, and educating children about road safety, we can prevent many of these accidents and save lives. As responsible adults, it is our duty to prioritize the safety of our children and take steps to protect them from harm on the roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers about the number of children who die in car accidents.

Q: How many children die in car accidents each year in the United States?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 636 child passengers under the age of 13 who died in motor vehicle crashes in the United States in 2018. This represents a 2 percent decrease from 2017.

The NHTSA also reports that in 2018, an estimated 135,000 children were injured in motor vehicle crashes.

Q: What is the leading cause of death for children in car accidents?

The leading cause of death for children in car accidents is the failure to properly restrain them in a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt. The NHTSA reports that in 2018, 37 percent of children who died in car crashes were not properly restrained.

It is important to ensure that children are correctly buckled up for every car ride, no matter how short the trip may be.

Q: What age group of children is most at risk for dying in car accidents?

According to the NHTSA, children under the age of 5 are the most at risk for dying in car accidents. In 2018, 238 children under the age of 5 died in car crashes.

It is especially important to make sure that young children are correctly restrained in car seats or booster seats appropriate for their age, height, and weight.

Q: What can parents do to help prevent child deaths in car accidents?

There are several steps parents can take to help prevent child deaths in car accidents. Firstly, always make sure that children are correctly restrained in a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt appropriate for their age, height, and weight.

Secondly, never leave children unattended in a car, even for a short amount of time. This can help prevent heatstroke deaths. Finally, always be a good role model and practice safe driving habits, such as wearing a seat belt and avoiding distracted driving.

Q: Are there any laws regarding child restraints in cars?

Yes, there are laws regarding child restraints in cars. All 50 states and the District of Columbia have laws requiring the use of child restraints for infants and children. These laws vary by state, but typically require that children be restrained in a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt until they reach a certain age, height, or weight.

It is important to check the laws in your state and follow them accordingly to help ensure your child’s safety while riding in a car.

In conclusion, the number of children dying in car accidents is a sobering statistic that demands our attention. Every year, thousands of families are impacted by the loss of a child due to a preventable car accident. It is crucial that we take steps to reduce the number of accidents on the road, such as practicing safe driving habits and ensuring that children are properly secured in their car seats.

As a society, we must also work to raise awareness about the importance of car safety to prevent tragedies from occurring. By educating ourselves and others, we can make a difference in the lives of countless families who have been devastated by the loss of a child in a car accident.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create a world where no child dies in a car accident. While this may seem like an ambitious goal, it is not impossible. By working together and taking action, we can make our roads safer for everyone, particularly our most vulnerable passengers – our children.

Brenton ArmourUX/UI Designer at - Adobe

Brenton Armour, the visionary founder and lead attorney at InjuryLawsuitHelper, boasts an impressive 15-year track record in personal injury law. His remarkable expertise spans cases from minor injuries to devastating accidents, earning him a sterling reputation as a trusted and passionate advocate for justice. Brenton's unwavering dedication to his clients has cemented his position as a sought-after personal injury attorney.

Scroll to Top