In 2022, Arkansas ranked fourth in the nation for motor-vehicle fatality rates, according to a new report from the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement (ACHI). The report reveals a troubling trend in the state’s road safety over the past six years, with a total of 4,089 fatalities from 2016 to 2022. These deaths include not only motorists but also pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.
The analysis, which draws on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlights a sharp increase in fatalities during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021 alone, the state saw 691 motor-vehicle deaths, the highest number during the six-year period, as many states experienced a rise in crashes amid lockdowns and decreased traffic enforcement.
Demographic data from the ACHI report shows that the majority of fatalities occurred among male victims, who accounted for 2,865 of the deaths, compared to 1,222 females. The report also reveals the age groups most affected by these tragic events. Adults aged 65 and older experienced the highest number of deaths, with 745 fatalities, followed by those aged 25 to 34, who recorded 714 deaths. In contrast, individuals under 19 represented the lowest number of fatalities, with 300 deaths reported.
One of the most alarming findings from the report is the number of deaths involving individuals not wearing seatbelts. Of the total 4,089 fatalities, 1,528 victims were not wearing seatbelts at the time of their crash. This underscores the ongoing challenges Arkansas faces in promoting road safety and encouraging seatbelt use across all demographics.
As the state grapples with these high fatality rates, experts and public health advocates continue to call for greater emphasis on traffic safety measures, including stricter enforcement of seatbelt laws and increased awareness campaigns. While the numbers from 2022 reflect a continued concern, they also serve as a call to action for reducing motor-vehicle fatalities and improving road safety for all Arkansans.