In 2020, African Americans represented the largest increase in traffic deaths of any racial group in the United States. While Americans overall drove fewer miles because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of fatalities among African Americans in motor vehicle crashes rose sharply—up 23 percent from 2019. This troubling figure highlights the reality that the burden of traffic deaths is not evenly shared across communities.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued its latest report in June 2021 confirming that 38,680 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2020, which represents the largest projected number of deaths since 2007. From 2010-2019, African Americans are far more likely to face traffic-related injuries. And African American pedestrians are 82 percent more likely to be hit by drivers according to Smart Growth American, a Washington, D.C.-based urban development advocacy group.
Longstanding Disparities in Traffic Safety
The racial disparities in traffic safety outcomes are not new. Between 2010 and 2019, African Americans were consistently more likely to suffer traffic-related injuries compared to other groups. The risks extend beyond drivers and passengers—African American pedestrians are 82 percent more likely to be struck by drivers than their white counterparts, according to research from Smart Growth America, a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group for equitable urban development.
These numbers underscore a sobering truth: the design and safety of our transportation systems are not experienced equally. Traffic safety, far from being a universal experience, reflects broader disparities tied to income, neighborhood infrastructure, and access to safer transit options.
Likely Causes of Disproportionate Death Rates
Why are these disparities so persistent? Critics and transportation advocates point to several interconnected causes:
- Lagging infrastructure – Many African American communities are located in areas with deteriorating or poorly maintained roadways.
- Urban design gaps – Sidewalk shortages, limited crosswalks, and dangerous intersections make pedestrians more vulnerable.
- Underinvestment in public transit – Fewer safe and reliable alternatives to driving often force reliance on unsafe roads.
Calvin Gladney, president of Smart Growth America, has emphasized that policy changes and infrastructure investments could help reduce these inequities. Federal initiatives like the proposed American Jobs Plan, which includes measures to expand public transportation and improve road safety, and the 2021 Complete Streets Act, which pushes for safer designs that account for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike, are examples of the kinds of solutions that could make a difference.
A Local Perspective: Hamilton, Ohio
For those of us in Hamilton, Ohio, the NHTSA noted that the proportion of fatalities in rural areas increased in 5 of the 10 months from March to December 2020. Speeding, poor lighting, and roadway design likely explain that uptick and are factors we should keep in mind as we drive Butler County roadways.
Of note, the proportion of fatalities occurring at nighttime and on weekends also rose in most months during the same period. Local drivers should carefully consider these trends when deciding when to run errands or travel for pleasure. Staying alert, avoiding distractions, and practicing defensive driving become even more important during those high-risk times.
For drivers here and across the country, it is also important to know what to do after a car accident, since quick decisions at the scene can affect both immediate safety and any future insurance or legal outcomes.
Trends in Truck Accidents
Interestingly, the percentage of total fatalities in crashes involving at least one large truck with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds decreased in most months from March to December 2020. Overall, fatalities in such crashes declined by 2 percent from 2019 to 2020. This trend offers a rare bright spot in an otherwise grim year for traffic safety. Time will tell whether this positive development continues as traffic volume increases with the easing of pandemic restrictions.
Trends in Motorcycle Accidents
Unfortunately, motorcyclists did not see the same decline. The total projected motorcyclist fatalities increased by 9 percent from 2019 to 2020. Motorcyclists in Hamilton and throughout Ohio are well aware of how often other drivers fail to notice them on the road. The combination of reduced visibility, distracted driving, and increased speed during the pandemic made 2020 a particularly deadly year for this group.
Motorcyclists can consult our previous blogs for practical strategies and suggested safe driving behaviors, but broader awareness from all drivers is needed to reduce these preventable tragedies.
Navigating Insurance Challenges
The aftermath of an accident is not only about physical recovery—it often involves complex interactions with insurance companies. Many people wonder how to scare insurance adjusters into offering a fair settlement. In truth, the best way is not through intimidation but by being well-prepared: keeping thorough documentation, knowing your rights, and seeking legal advice when necessary. These steps can ensure adjusters recognize that you are informed and serious about receiving fair treatment.
Moving Forward
The disproportionate rise in traffic deaths among African Americans during 2020 should serve as a wake-up call. Transportation equity, road design, enforcement, and investment all play a role in shaping outcomes. While federal initiatives and policy reforms may begin to address these gaps, individual drivers and communities also need to remain vigilant about safety.
Understanding the risks, practicing defensive driving, and supporting infrastructure improvements can make a meaningful difference. Safer roads benefit everyone—but reducing inequities ensures that the most vulnerable communities are no longer left to bear the heaviest cost.
Looking for a Vehicle Accident Attorney?
While The Richards Firm would prefer that vehicular accidents did not occur, we understand that’s unrealistic. The Richards Firm is prepared to handle all of your personal injury needs, including motor vehicle accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and wrongful deaths resulting from those accidents. We also help people injured by dog bites, products liability, premises liability, and nursing home negligence cases.
We are vehicle accident attorneys in Hamilton, Ohio who will provide you with a proven approach that will give you the answers that you need and achieve the results to which you are entitled. Call Rhys for advice on your legal matter.
We can be reached at 513-868-2731, ext. 219 or visit us at richardsinjuryfirm.com. Follow The Richards Firm on Facebook (@TheRichardsFirm) or on Twitter (@FirmRichards).
