A new study by John Foy & Associates reveals that long-distance road trips and everyday travel pose heightened safety risks, with drunk driving, fatigue, and distracted driving leading to higher accident rates and severe injuries. With millions of Americans on the road daily, understanding these risks is critical for public safety.
Key Findings:
- 2,782,771 injuries occurred in 2022, making car accidents the third leading cause of non-fatal injuries in the U.S.
- Drunk driving remains a leading cause of accidents, with 300,000 injuries caused by impaired driving last year alone.
- Fatigued driving is as dangerous as DUI, yet it remains underreported.
- Distracted driving caused 12 percent of all car crashes, reflecting the dangers of inattention behind the wheel.
- Families spent an estimated $18 billion recovering from car accident injuries in 2022.
Travel Risks & Road Safety Concerns:
- Drunk Driving & Late-Night Travel – Many accidents occur when drivers are fatigued or impaired.
- Long Distance Driving & Fatigue – Extended hours on the road contribute to drowsy driving, slower reaction times, and accidents.
- Heavier Traffic & Distracted Driving – Navigating highways, using GPS, and handling passengers increase in-car distractions.
- Changing Road & Weather Conditions – Varying speed limits, unfamiliar routes, and poor visibility create hazardous driving situations.
Car Accidents & Injuries –
- Car accidents are a leading cause of non-fatal injuries in the U.S., often resulting in long-term physical consequences such as whiplash, spinal trauma, head injuries, and broken bones.
- These injuries can lead to chronic pain that affects victims well beyond the initial crash. Soft tissue damage, neck and back issues, and traumatic brain injuries are among the most common sources of ongoing discomfort.
- For many, the physical recovery process is lengthy, expensive, and emotionally taxing—highlighting the importance of legal and medical support after a serious collision.
The full study can be found here: https://www.johnfoy.com/research/exploring-the-impact-of-car-accident-on-human-body/
Expert Commentary:
“With increased travel on highways and city roads, drivers need to prioritize safety. Simple precautions such as avoiding distractions, planning for rest breaks, and never driving under the influence can prevent life-altering accidents.” – [John Foy & Associates]
Author: Brittany Cotton
Published by International Pain Foundation, iPain Blog, Team iPain
