The latest research compiled by The Millar Law Firm offers a comprehensive look at how American road safety has evolved over the past eight years. The findings reveal a clear pattern: after a turbulent pandemic period, both local and national crash trends are improving, with fatalities dropping at some of the fastest rates seen in more than a decade.
The study begins with Fulton County, Georgia, a region known for its dense traffic and high crash volume. The county’s data provides a microcosm of the broader national picture.
In 2018, Fulton County recorded 63,431 crashes. That number climbed to 66,057 in 2019 before plummeting to 45,768 in 2020 as COVID‑19 emptied roadways. But the most telling trend emerges after 2021, when traffic returned to normal and crash numbers began a steady decline.
Fulton County Crash Totals (2018–2025)
- 2018: 63,431
- 2019: 66,057
- 2020: 45,768
- 2021: 58,100
- 2025: 49,192
This represents a 25% decline from the 2019 peak.
Injury‑only crashes followed a similar trajectory. After reaching 24,234 in 2021, injuries fell to 20,713 by 2025. Fatalities show the most dramatic improvement, dropping from 171 deaths in 2021 to just 84 in 2025.
Fulton County Fatalities (2021–2025)
- 2021: 171
- 2025: 84
- Change: –51%
Despite nearly 50,000 crashes in 2025, fatalities accounted for only 0.2 percent of incidents. Injuries occurred in 42 percent of crashes, but most were minor.
2025 Injury Severity
- Serious injuries: 805
- Visible injuries: 3,020
- Complaint injuries: 16,888
The data suggests that while crashes remain frequent, their severity is decreasing. Driver behavior remains the leading cause of crashes, with following too closely and improper lane changes accounting for more than half of all incidents.
National Data Mirrors Local Improvements
The Millar Law Firm’s analysis incorporates national statistics showing similar declines. NHTSA reports an 8.2% drop in fatalities during the first half of 2025. The National Safety Council estimates that 18,720 people died in crashes between January and June 2025, a 13% decrease from the same period in 2024.
Largest State‑Level Fatality Reductions (2024–2025)
- District of Columbia: –73.1%
- Connecticut: –32.5%
- Delaware: –26.6%
- Mississippi: –25.7%
- Maryland: –23.5%
The national fatality rate fell to 1.15 deaths per 100 million miles traveled, marking a significant improvement over 2023 and 2024.
Cultural Shifts Are Reducing Impaired Driving
One of the most striking findings in the study involves alcohol consumption. A Gallup poll shows a rapid decline in the percentage of Americans who identify as drinkers.
Percentage of Americans Who Drink Alcohol
- 2022: 67%
- 2023: 62%
- 2025: 54%
This shift is reflected in drunk‑driving fatality data:
- 2022: 13,458 deaths
- 2023: 12,429 deaths
- Change: –7.6%
Younger generations are driving much of this change. Sixty‑three percent of Gen Z respondents say they are less interested in alcohol now than when they first tried it. Many are turning to THC‑based beverages instead, with 18 percent calling alcohol “out” and THC drinks “in.”
Remote Work Is Reshaping Traffic Patterns
The rise of remote work has dramatically altered when Americans drive. Midday trips are up 23 percent compared to 2019, while morning rush‑hour traffic is down 12 percent. The traditional 5 p.m. peak has dropped 9 percent.
These shifts reduce congestion during historically dangerous periods and may be contributing to lower crash severity.
Technology Is Making Vehicles Safer
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are another major factor in improving road safety. Features like automatic emergency braking and lane‑keeping assist are reducing the likelihood of human‑error‑related crashes.
Key Technology Findings
- 94% of crashes are caused by human error
- Human drivers: 50.5 crashes per million miles
- Self‑driving systems: 23 crashes per million miles
- Human‑caused crashes: 69%
- Autonomous‑vehicle‑caused crashes: 10%
Long‑term projections show that by 2050, self‑driving technology could prevent 4.22 million accidents annually and save 21,700 lives.
Large‑truck fatalities are also declining:
- 2022: 5,936 deaths
- 2023: 5,472 deaths
- First half of 2024: 2,523 deaths
A Safer Future Is Within Reach
The Millar Law Firm’s study concludes that U.S. roads are becoming safer due to a combination of cultural, technological, and behavioral changes. With stronger graduated driver‑licensing laws, the country could prevent an additional 9,500 crashes and 500 deaths each year.
The data shows a clear trajectory: fewer crashes, fewer injuries, and fewer fatalities. While challenges remain, the trend is unmistakably positive.
