Deaths of Law Enforcement Officers by Motor Vehicle Crashes: A Review of FARS Data for the Years 1996 to 2007

The death of law enforcement officers (LEOs) in motor vehicle crashes have increased by 48% in the past 28 years. Between the years 2005 to 2007, 54% of all LEO deaths “in the line of duty” were motor vehicle crash involved. When comparing the fatality rate of LEOs to the general population, during the years from 1996 to 1999 LEOs deaths by motor vehicle crashes were at the same or lower rate than the general population. Since the year 2000 the fatality rate for the general population has steadily declined, but the LEO fatality rate has been increasing. The age bracket that has the largest amount of crashes is in the 30 to 39 years of age. But, in the 20 to 39 year grouping, they account for 69% of all fatal crashes. The non-use of restraints by LEOs in fatal crashes is at 39%. In accordance with non-use of restraints, 24% of crashes involve an ejection of the occupant. The data show that 42% of all fatal crashes for LEOs involve an object off the road. Thus, the police vehicle is running off the road in some manner. Along with this, the initial point of impact on the police vehicle is the front in 48% of the crashes.

  • Authors:
    • Bean, James D
    • Noh, Eun Young
  • Publication Date: 2010-5

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: Print
  • Features: Figures; Tables;
  • Pagination: pp 20-23
  • Serial:
    • Sheriff
    • Volume: 62
    • Issue Number: 3
    • Publisher: National Sheriff Association

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01158448
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Jun 7 2010 4:25PM