As the population continues to grow in Concord, California, so does the concern for road safety. A 2020 report on Contra Costa County reveals alarming accident statistics and rankings, highlighting the urgency for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists to take extra precautions when navigating the streets.
In this article, we will explore the data and provide essential tips for becoming a safer road user.
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) published a report detailing the number of fatal and injury crashes in Concord in 2020.
A total of 404 victims were killed or injured, placing Concord 34th out of 61 cities in its group making it one of the most dangerous cities evaluated.
The following are some specific types of crashes and their corresponding rankings:
- Alcohol Involved: 52 victims, ranked 26/61
- Had Been Drinking Driver < 21: 4 victims, ranked 13/61
- Had Been Drinking Driver 21 – 34: 19 victims, ranked 20/61
- Motorcycles: 16 victims, ranked 48/61
- Pedestrians: 31 victims, ranked 25/61
- Pedestrians < 15: 4 victims, ranked 11/61
- Pedestrians 65+: 2 victims, ranked 45/61
- Bicyclists: 23 victims, ranked 21/61
- Bicyclists < 15: 2 victims, ranked 29/61
When examining the causes of these fatal and injury crashes, speed-related incidents account for 78 crashes, ranking Concord 19th out of 61 cities.
Nighttime accidents (9:00 pm – 2:59 am) make up 42 crashes, with a ranking of 29/61. Hit-and-run incidents are also a concern, with 39 crashes and a ranking of 18/61.
Furthermore, the report highlights a total of 180 DUI arrests in Concord, placing the city at 25th out of 61.
The Most Common Types of Accidents in Concord
Based on the available 2020 accident statistics, the following are some of the most common types of accidents in Concord, California:
- Alcohol-involved accidents: With 52 incidents resulting in victims being killed or injured, alcohol-related crashes are a significant concern in Concord. Drunk driving not only endangers the lives of drivers but also puts pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists at risk. These are the most common type of cases our Concord car accident attorneys handle.
- Speed-related accidents: Speeding is another major factor contributing to accidents in Concord. The city experienced 78 speed-related crashes in 2020, emphasizing the importance of adhering to speed limits and adjusting to road conditions.
- Nighttime accidents: Reduced visibility and potential driver fatigue make nighttime driving more dangerous. In Concord, there were 42 accidents occurring between 9:00 pm and 2:59 am in 2020.
- Hit-and-run accidents: Hit-and-run incidents are not only illegal but also pose a significant threat to road safety. Concord experienced 39 hit-and-run crashes in 2020, ranking 18th out of 61 cities in its group.
- Pedestrian accidents: Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries or fatalities in the event of an accident. In 2020, 31 pedestrian accidents were reported in Concord, with a higher risk for children under 15 years old and senior citizens over 65 years old.
- Bicyclist accidents: Similar to pedestrians, bicyclists are more susceptible to severe injuries in crashes. Concord reported 23 bicyclist accidents in 2020, with children under 15 years old being more vulnerable.
- Motorcycle accidents: Motorcyclists face unique risks on the road, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities in the event of a crash. Concord experienced 16 motorcycle accidents in 2020, highlighting the need for motorcyclists and other road users to exercise caution. Our Concord motorcycle accident attorneys get many calls where someone was injured due to a car vs. motorcycle or truck vs. motorcycle accident.
These common accident types in Concord, California, underscore the importance of practicing safe driving habits, staying alert, and being aware of one’s surroundings to protect oneself and others on the road.
Stay Safe on Concord’s Roads
These statistics demonstrate the need for increased road safety awareness and responsible driving habits.
Here are some essential tips for becoming a safer road user:
- Follow traffic rules: Obey speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs. Adhering to the rules not only keeps you safe but also helps protect other road users.
- Stay sober: Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Always designate a sober driver or use alternative transportation options, such as taxis or ridesharing services.
- Be extra cautious at night: Visibility is reduced during nighttime hours. Slow down, use your headlights appropriately, and stay vigilant for pedestrians and bicyclists.
- Look out for vulnerable road users: Pay attention to pedestrians, particularly children and seniors, as well as bicyclists. Yield to them when required and maintain a safe distance.
- Avoid distractions: Put away your phone and any other distractions while driving. Keep your focus on the road, and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Practice defensive driving: Anticipate potential hazards and be prepared to react in a timely manner. Keep a safe following distance, and adjust your driving according to weather and road conditions.
By understanding the dangers on the roads of Concord and implementing safe driving practices, we can work together to reduce accidents and improve safety for all road users. Stay alert, stay responsible, and stay safe.
This article was written by Andy Gillin from our Concord personal injury law office.
Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Andy is a highly recognized wrongful death lawyer in California.