The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has released its crash report for 2016. Unfortunately, motor vehicle deaths rose dramatically for the second year in a row.

Nine hundred sixty-two people died in car crashes in Arizona, 67 more than in 2015. The overall increase in deaths follows a disturbing national trend.

ADOT’s annual crash report details the types of accidents, where they happened, and what may have contributed. Two hundred fifty people lost their lives because they were not wearing a seatbelt. Would stricter seatbelt laws and enforcement make a difference?

Driving impaired is another important factor. Crashes involving alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medication killed 406 people in 2016. Driving under the influence is never okay; it’s a dangerous decision that may take your life and the lives of others.

Pedestrians didn’t fare well either. One hundred ninety-seven pedestrians were killed, up from 163 in 2015. Arizona is one of a few remaining states with no helmet laws for riders over 18.

The Most Dangerous Day of the Week?

The most likely day and time to be involved in a fatal crash? On a Friday at 5 pm, most people are headed home for the weekend. Unfortunately, the 4th of July continues to be the holiday with the highest number of fatal accidents. Celebrating the 4th is fine, but don’t get behind the wheel if you’re impaired.

Multiple wrong-way driving crashes have occurred over the past few years, yet ADOT does not mention them in the report. For the second year, ADOT discusses the influence of distracted driving. Unfortunately, a significant portion of the data is inconclusive. Arizona is one of the last states without a comprehensive statewide ban on texting and driving.

There is no question that driver behavior is the primary factor in fatal crashes in Arizona, but it’s not the only factor.

Many roads and highways across the State are unsafe. The number of accidents continues to rise, and more Arizonans are dying.

ADOT has done little to make our roads safer. The Leader Law Firm has litigation against the State for their negligence in keeping our streets safe successfully. Two of our cases involved a lack of median barriers on I-10 between Tucson and Phoenix. No barriers have been installed in some of the most dangerous stretches.

What can you do to protect yourself on Arizona’s roads?

-Don’t drive distracted-put your phone down

-Don’t drive impaired, either by alcohol, illegal drugs, or medication

-Slow down, obey speed limits and wear your seat belt

Arizona’s population continues to surge, along with the crash fatality rate. We all play a role in safety, including the State of Arizona.