Why do more Black Women Die in Car Crashes?

While women in general are 17% more likely than men to die in car crashes, African-American women are disproportionally affected more than women in general and their male counterparts, according to police-reporting traffic data in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). What are the Factors that contribute to higher car crash fatalities among African American women? The data shows that while traffic fatalities disproportionately impact African Americans, there’s a disparity that extends to women within this community. Several factors contribute to this concerning trend:

• Socioeconomic Disparities:

  • Limited access to affordable transportation options can increase reliance on older, less safe vehicles.

  • Poverty can restrict access to preventative measures like car maintenance and safety features.

  • Living in areas with inadequate infrastructure and higher traffic volumes increases risk exposure.

• Racial Bias in Law Enforcement:

  • Studies suggest that Black drivers are more likely to be stopped and searched by police, potentially increasing the risk of accidents due to heightened stress and anxiety.

  • Over-policing can lead to more frequent interactions with law enforcement, which can have negative consequences for mental health and driving safety.

• Systemic Issues:

  • Road design and infrastructure in many areas are often built with the needs of white, affluent communities in mind, potentially overlooking the specific safety concerns of African American communities.

  • Lack of pedestrian and cycling infrastructure investment can force residents in marginalized communities to rely heavily on cars, increasing their exposure to traffic dangers.

• Lack of Data and Targeted Research:

  • Limited data collection, specifically on traffic fatalities among African American women, hinders a comprehensive understanding of the problem and limits the development of practical solutions.

  • Further research is needed to identify specific risk factors and tailor interventions to address the unique challenges faced by this population.

Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach:

• Invest in equitable transportation systems: Improve public transportation options, invest in safe walking and cycling infrastructure, and ensure access to affordable, reliable vehicles.

• Reform law enforcement practices: Address racial bias in policing and promote de-escalation techniques to reduce the risk of accidents during traffic stops.

• Enhance data collection and research: Collect comprehensive data on traffic fatalities among African American women to better understand the problem and inform targeted interventions.

• Implement community-based safety programs: Develop and implement culturally sensitive safety programs that address African American women drivers' specific needs and concerns.

By addressing these underlying factors, we can work towards reducing the disproportionate impact of traffic fatalities on African American women and creating a safer transportation system for all.