Mississippi sees 5th largest increase in fatal crashes: study
JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – A new study reveals that Mississippi's number of road fatalities is heading in the wrong direction.
Florida Personal Injury Lawyers Anidjar & Levine found a concerning trend of more fatal crashes nationally between 2012 and 2021. Using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the group found that certain states now have significantly more fatal crashes involving other vehicles. Mississippi saw a nearly 31% increase, the fifth-highest nationally.
The last major holiday in Mississippi was Labor Day. Over the last few years, fatal accidents have increased. During the 2024 Labor Day Holiday Travel Period, the Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) responded to seven fatal crashes with 15 deaths. In 2021, there were only three fatal crashes and six deaths.
Below is the breakdown of MHP data.
Christmas is also a dangerous time to be on Mississippi's roadways. A 2023 report utilizing NHTSA revealed that Mississippi had the most fatal crashes per capita between December 24-26.
Fatal accidents also disproportionately affect the state's youngest drivers. A May report revealed that Mississippi ranks fifth in the United States for teenage driving fatalities.
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