As residents of Concord, California, we all share a common goal: to ensure the safety of our community on the roads.
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we believe that understanding the statistics behind traffic accidents is crucial in promoting awareness and encouraging safer driving practices.
In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll delve into the accident statistics for Concord based on the most recent available data, shedding light on various aspects of road safety and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
Overview of Concord’s Traffic Situation
Concord, located in Contra Costa County, is home to a population of approximately 123,102 residents.
In 2021 (the most recent data available), the city recorded a Daily Vehicle Miles Traveled (DVMT) of 1,407,376. These numbers paint a picture of a bustling city with significant daily traffic, underscoring the importance of road safety measures.
Total Accidents and Injuries
In 2021, Concord experienced a total of 420 fatal and injury collisions. This statistic placed the city 51st out of 60 similarly sized cities in California, indicating a relatively better performance compared to many other municipalities.
However, it’s crucial to remember that each of these incidents represents a potential tragedy for individuals and families involved.
Attorney Andy Gillin, a seasoned expert in car accident cases, comments on the significance of these numbers:
“While Concord’s ranking of 51 out of 60 cities might seem encouraging at first glance, we must remember that every single accident represents a life impacted. At GJEL, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects these incidents can have on individuals and families. It’s our mission to not only provide legal support to those affected but also to advocate for improved road safety measures to prevent future accidents.”
Alcohol-Related Incidents
Alcohol continues to be a significant factor in traffic accidents across the nation, and Concord is no exception. In 2021, the city recorded 64 alcohol-involved collisions, ranking 30th out of 60 cities. This middling ranking suggests that while Concord isn’t among the worst offenders, there’s still considerable room for improvement in reducing drunk driving incidents.
Breaking down the alcohol-related statistics further:
- 11 collisions involved drivers under 21 who had been drinking (ranking 5th out of 60)
- 22 collisions involved drivers aged 21-34 who had been drinking (ranking 44th out of 60)
These numbers highlight a concerning trend among younger drivers, particularly those under 21. The high ranking in this category suggests that targeted education and prevention programs for young drivers could be beneficial in reducing alcohol-related accidents.
Vulnerable Road Users
Pedestrians and cyclists are often at higher risk in traffic accidents due to their lack of protection.
Let’s examine how Concord fared in protecting these vulnerable road users in 2021:
Pedestrian Accidents
- Total pedestrian accidents: 37 (ranking 28th out of 60)
- Accidents involving pedestrians under 15: 3 (ranking 24th out of 60)
- Accidents involving pedestrians over 65: 1 (ranking 12th out of 60)
While Concord’s overall ranking for pedestrian accidents is in the middle range, the relatively low number of incidents involving children and seniors is encouraging. However, there’s always room for improvement in pedestrian safety, particularly in areas with high foot traffic.
Bicycle Accidents
- Total bicycle accidents: 19 (ranking 36th out of 60)
- Accidents involving cyclists under 15: 4 (ranking 17th out of 60)
The bicycle accident statistics suggest that Concord is performing better than average in this category. However, the higher ranking for accidents involving young cyclists indicates a need for increased safety measures and education for child cyclists. (Note: GJEL Only handles serious injury cycling accident cases)
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists are another vulnerable group on the roads. In 2021, Concord recorded 24 motorcycle accidents, ranking 41st out of 60 cities.
This lower ranking suggests that Concord is doing relatively well in motorcycle safety compared to similar-sized cities. However, given the severe consequences often associated with motorcycle accidents, continued efforts to improve safety for motorcyclists remain crucial.
Speed-Related Accidents
Speeding continues to be a major contributor to traffic accidents. In 2021, Concord recorded 85 speed-related collisions, ranking 39th out of 60 cities. While this ranking is in the better half, the number of accidents is still significant.
Efforts to reduce speeding through a combination of enforcement, education, and road design could help lower this number further.
Nighttime Accidents
Accidents occurring between 9:00 PM and 2:59 AM are often associated with factors such as reduced visibility, fatigue, and a higher likelihood of impaired driving. Concord recorded 38 nighttime accidents in 2021, ranking 47th out of 60 cities.
This relatively good ranking suggests that Concord’s nighttime road safety measures are comparatively effective, but there’s still room for improvement.
Hit and Run Incidents
Hit and run accidents are particularly troubling as they often leave victims without immediate assistance and complicate the process of seeking justice.
Concord recorded 31 hit and run collisions in 2021, ranking 36th out of 60 cities. While this ranking is in the better half, efforts to reduce these incidents and apprehend those responsible should remain a priority.
DUI Arrests
Law enforcement plays a crucial role in preventing drunk driving through proactive measures such as DUI checkpoints and patrols. In 2021, Concord made 183 DUI arrests, ranking 26th out of 60 cities.
This ranking suggests that Concord’s law enforcement is relatively active in combating drunk driving, but continued vigilance is necessary to further reduce alcohol-related accidents.
Composite Ranking
Taking into account all these factors, Concord received a composite ranking of 34th out of 60 similarly sized cities in California for overall traffic safety.
This ranking places Concord slightly above the median, indicating that while the city is performing better than average in many areas, there is still significant room for improvement.
Injured in an Accident? Call GJEL
The 2021 accident statistics for Concord, CA, paint a picture of a city that is performing reasonably well in terms of road safety compared to similar-sized municipalities.
However, every accident represents a potential tragedy, and there is always room for improvement.
As Attorney Andy Gillin notes:
“These statistics serve as both a reminder of the progress we’ve made and a call to action for further improvements. Each number represents real people whose lives have been affected by traffic accidents. At GJEL, we’re committed to supporting those who have been injured and advocating for measures that will make our roads safer for everyone.”
If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious traffic accident in Concord, GJEL Accident Attorneys is here to help. Our experienced team specializes in cases involving serious injury or wrongful death resulting from traffic accidents.
Have you been injured in a car accident? Don’t navigate the complex legal process alone. Let GJEL Accident Attorneys fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation:
- Address: 2801 Concord Blvd, Concord, CA 94519, United States
- Phone: +1 925-676-1330
- Available: Open 24 hours
Remember, GJEL only handles cases that involve serious injury or wrongful death. Our dedicated team is available around the clock to provide the support and expertise you need during this challenging time.
Together, we can work towards making Concord’s roads safer for everyone. Stay informed, drive responsibly, and remember that if the worst happens, GJEL Accident Attorneys is here to support you every step of the way.
Sources
https://www.ots.ca.gov/rankings/concord-2021
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. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.