Recent studies reveal two trends in accidental death rates: the overall accidental death rate appears to be climbing, while rates have plunged nationally for children and teens. Studies reveal that the accidental death rate on the whole has been steadily increasing over the past few years, both in Mississippi and nationwide. Accidental death rates are now up 12% compared to the lowest rate on record in 1992. If the trend continues, analysts predict we may surpass the nationwide high of 116,000 accidental deaths recorded in 1969.
Accidental deaths are the leading cause of death for those under the age of 35. They are the fifth leading cause of death overall, behind cancer, stroke, and heart disease. Up until recent years, the rate of accidental deaths had been on the decline. Between 1969 and 1992, the accidental death rate steadily dropped, which many attributed to the installation of seat belts and air bags in motor vehicles, smoke detectors in homes, and the passage of stiff drunk driving laws.
Whatever ground had been gained, however, appears to be slipping due to the increase in falls among the elderly and the uptick in accidental overdoses, combined with the seemingly steady rate of car crashes and workplace accidents. The death rate from falls in those over the age of 65 rose 31 percent from 1999 to 2003, meaning that deaths from falls are increasing at a rate faster than the elderly population is growing. Elderly are not the only individuals killed by falls. The overall death from falls rate climbed from 16,000 in 2002 to over 17,000 in 2003.
On the other hand, nationally, the rate of fatal accident deaths among children and teens plunged over 30% between 2000 and 2009. This decrease in accidental injury deaths has resulted in more than 11,000 children’s lives being saved. The reduction in childhood accidental death rates is being attributed to increased automobile safety, including use of seat belts and booster seats. The rate of accidental deaths for those below the age of 20 has dropped to 11 deaths per 100,000 individuals. Fatal traffic accidents involving children dropped a whopping 41% between 2000 to 2009.
While these statistics concerning childhood accidental deaths appear to depict an improving picture, Mississippi does not seem to be following the national trend. Mississippi’s accidental death rate for children and teenagers was 25 deaths per 100,000 in 2009, one and a half times the national average. Mississippi’s high rate of accidental deaths among children is likely attributable to the state’s soaring number of children killed in automobile accidents each year.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to an accident, it is essential that you consult with a skilled, knowledgeable Mississippi personal injury attorney. A personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and bring an action on your behalf to ensure you recover from the individual responsible for your injuries. It is important to call a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident. Oftentimes, essential evidence can be gathered with your prompt action, such as witness statements, surveillance videos, pictures of the scene of the accident, and more.
For over 20 years, the Giddens Law Firm has provided exemplary representation to accident victims in the Jackson, Mississippi area. We represent victims involved in automobile, motorcycle, bike, and trucking accidents, as well as all forms of personal injuries and sports injuries. Our skilled attorney team has filed thousands of successful personal injury actions, helping to make our clients whole. Call Giddens Law Firm today at 601-355-2022 to schedule your initial consultation.