Do more car accidents happen in the city or in the country?

| Jul 26, 2013 | Car Accidents

Many people living in Ohio wonder if it is safer to live in the city or in a rural community? A new study may be able to provide an answer to this common question. Cities are safer than rural communities, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Minnesota.

Despite larger cities having a higher homicide rate, larger cities are safer due to fewer people dying from car accidents and other accident-related injuries compared to people who live in rural areas. The study reported that unintentional fatal injuries are 40 percent higher in rural areas compared to urban areas in the U.S.

A majority of fatal unintentional injuries are caused by car accidents and fatal car accidents are twice as likely to happen in rural areas compared to larger cities, according to the study.

Why are drivers more likely to be victims of fatal car accidents in rural areas? The study reported that the lack of trauma care centers and having emergency centers close by after a serious car accident plays a big role in the fatality rate. Because larger cities have more trauma centers, victims injured in car accidents receive medical attention faster. Rural areas have less access to trauma centers and emergency doctors so victims who suffer serious injuries may not receive necessary care in time.

Even though rural communities have a higher fatal car accident rate, all drivers should be aware of the risks they face on the road. People driving need to keep their focus on the road and drive defensively, especially during adverse weather conditions. Drivers also need to reduce their distractions while driving. This means putting down the cellphone, pre-programming music and keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to keep everyone safe on the road.

Source: Red Orbit, “Cities Are Actually Safer Than Rural Areas, Says Study,” July 23, 2013

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