In Mississippi, the safety and regulation of truck operations on the roads have become a growing concern. A recent analysis of truck accidents between 2020 and 2024 reveals significant trends and areas for improvement. The data provides insights into the number of crashes, the number of vehicles involved, and the resultant fatalities and injuries caused by these truck crashes.
Vehicle Involvement in Truck Crashes
*Data reported to FMCSA as of 7/26/24
The data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) shows a slow decline in the number of vehicles involved in Mississippi truck crashes, and 2024 is on track to continue this trend.
Fatal and Non-Fatal Truck Crashes in Mississippi
Though there has been a downward trend in the number of vehicles involved in truck crashes in Mississippi during the past five years, this is not necessarily the case regarding the severity of these crashes. For instance, in 2020, out of the 2,217 vehicles involved, 96 caused fatalities, but in 2021, this number rose to 119 vehicles out of the 2,141 total vehicles involved (ai.fmcsa.dot.gov).
Fatalities and Injuries in Mississippi Truck Accidents
The human toll of these accidents is reflected in both the number of fatalities and injuries. Over the five-year period, fatalities ranged from a high of 120 to a low of 21, with the highest number occurring in the second year. Injuries as a result of these crashes also showed a significant range, peaking at 1,113 in the fourth year and dropping to 373 in the final year.
Key Observations
- Reduction in Total Crashes: There is a noticeable decrease in the total number of crashes from 2020 (2,027) to 2023 (1,830) and 2024 is on track to continue this trend (714 in the first 6 months). This trend could be a positive indicator of improved safety measures or regulations, though the data does not specify the cause.
- Fluctuating Fatal Crashes: The number of fatal crashes did not follow a consistent pattern, with highs and lows indicating varying factors affecting truck safety on a yearly basis. The peak in the second year suggests a need for further investigation into what caused such an increase.
- Consistent Non-Fatal Crashes: Non-fatal crashes have shown more stability in numbers compared to fatal crashes. However, their high incidence rate still calls for continuous efforts in preventive measures and driver safety education.
- Importance of Safety Measures: These fluctuating numbers still show the importance of continuous preventive measures and driver safety education.
Final Thoughts From a Mississippi Truck Accident Attorney
The five-year data on Mississippi truck accidents highlights progress and areas needing attention. The reduction in the number of crashes is encouraging. However, the fluctuations in fatal crashes and injuries suggest that there is no room for complacency. Continuous monitoring, enhanced safety protocols, and rigorous enforcement of traffic regulations are essential to maintain and improve these positive trends. It is crucial for stakeholders, including transportation authorities and trucking companies, to collaborate in promoting safer driving practices and infrastructure improvements to ensure the safety of all road users in Mississippi.
If you were involved in a truck accident in Mississippi, don’t delay. Contact a Mississippi truck accident lawyer a Giddens Law Firm immediately to start your claim.
Data Source: FMCSA Motor Carrier Management Information System (MCMIS) data snapshot as of 7/26/2024. MCMIS data are considered preliminary for 22 months to allow for changes.
