Fatal Collision Rates on Urban vs. Rural Roads

What are the differences in fatality and fatal collision rates between urban and rural roads?

How do rural roads compare to urban roads in terms of fatalities and fatal crashes?

Final answer:

When comparing fatality rates and fatal collision statistics, it is evident that rural roads have higher overall fatality numbers, more speeding fatalities during the day, more fatal crashes during the day, more unrestrained occupant fatalities, more fatalities in rollover crashes, and more drivers who die at the scene of the crash.

Explanation:

When comparing fatality and fatal collision rates on urban roads with those on rural roads, it is found that rural roads have:

• More fatalities overall: The total number of fatalities on rural roads is higher than on urban roads due to various factors such as higher speed limits, fewer traffic control measures, and longer emergency response times.
• More speeding fatalities during the day: Rural roads often have higher speed limits and less traffic enforcement, leading to an increased risk of speeding-related fatalities during daylight hours.
• More fatal crashes during the day: Rural roads may have less traffic, but they can be more dangerous due to lack of infrastructure and more hazardous conditions, contributing to a higher number of fatal crashes during the day.
• More unrestrained occupant fatalities: Rural areas often have lower seatbelt usage rates, resulting in a higher number of unrestrained occupants who may be more prone to fatal injuries in accidents.
• More fatalities in rollover crashes: Rural roads may have more varied terrain and fewer safety features, increasing the likelihood of rollover crashes that can lead to more severe injuries and fatalities.
• More drivers who die at the scene of the crash: Rural areas may have longer emergency response times, resulting in more drivers succumbing to their injuries before help arrives.