New Puzzle: Why fewer are killed in car crashes | Toledo, Ohio Car Accident Lawyer

The number of drivers involved in fatal accidents who were eating, talking on a phone or otherwise distracted rose from 42% from 2005-2008. But that's just one way to read a new study of highway deaths.

The broad trend is that the number of total road fatalities dropped in 2009 to 33,963 down 22% from 43,510 in 2005. That's the fastest rate of decline in traffic deaths in peacetime since the sawn of automotive mass production in 1913. The dramatic decline in highway fatalities in the U.S. since 2005 is a piece of good news that's also a bit of a mystery. Is it the result of better vehicle safety technology? Less stupid, reckless behavior? Smarter strategies for easing teens into the responsibilities of driving? Or just an unexpected positive side effect of a slumping economy? 

A new study by two University of Michigan researchers of detailed federal crash statistics from 2005-2008 suggests all these reasons could be behind the reduced death toll. Consider distracting driving. The dangers of texting or talking on a phone will driving have received a lot of attention.

Many states have banned talking on the phone while driving in either their state or in certain counties within their state. This could also be another reason why car and truck accidents are on a decline.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, call our Toledo, Ohio personal injury lawyers at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of The Ohio Accident Book