How many deaths by automobiles in 2024
This fact-check may be outdated. Consider refreshing it to get the most current information.
Was this fact-check helpful?
1. Summary of the results
The estimated number of deaths by automobiles in 2024 is 39,345, which represents a 3.8% decrease from the 40,901 fatalities reported in 2023 [1] [2]. This decrease is also noted by multiple sources, including the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [1]. Additionally, some sources highlight that this is the first time since 2020 that the number of fatalities has fallen below 40,000 [2]. The decline in traffic fatalities is also observed in the first nine months of 2024, with an estimated 29,135 people dying in traffic crashes, representing a 4.4% decrease compared to the same period in 2023 [3]. Furthermore, pedestrian fatalities are reported to be 3,304 in the first half of 2024, which is down 2.6% from the year before but still 48% above the number a decade ago [4].
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
Some sources provide more detailed information on specific aspects of traffic fatalities, such as pedestrian fatalities [4], while others discuss trends in mortalities due to traffic and non-traffic accidents from 2016 to 2022 [5]. However, these sources do not provide specific data on traffic fatalities in 2024. It is also important to consider the trends in traffic fatalities over time, as noted by some sources [2], and the comparison to previous years [1]. Additionally, the geographical context of traffic fatalities is not provided in the analyses, which could be an important factor to consider [5]. The methods used to estimate traffic fatalities are also not discussed in detail, which could impact the accuracy of the estimates [1].
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The original statement asks for the number of deaths by automobiles in 2024, which is accurately reported by multiple sources as 39,345 [1] [2]. However, the statement does not provide context on the trends in traffic fatalities over time or the comparison to previous years, which could be misleading [2]. The sources that report on pedestrian fatalities [4] and trends in mortalities due to traffic and non-traffic accidents [5] may benefit from a more nuanced understanding of the issue, as they provide more detailed information on specific aspects of traffic fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) may benefit from the reporting of traffic fatalities, as it is cited by multiple sources as the authority on the issue [2].