Kansas Accident Statistics

Highway Mowers Can Lead to Accidents

Statewide (May 5, 2023) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reminds motorists to “Go Slow While We Mow.” KDOT’s landscaping crews work hard to keep the grass along the highway safe and tidy. Unfortunately, some drivers are distracted by large mowers, while others drive recklessly and do not give the workers the courtesy that they deserve.

Patterson Legal Group echoes KDOT’s advice and asks you to drive cautiously if you spot a mower or tractor working on the freeway. Giving KDOT workers the space and respect they deserve will help keep them safe and help you avoid a car accident. Source: KDOT

Three Main Causes of Distracted Driving

Statewide (April 3, 2023) – The Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office (KTSRO) claims that 20% of the state’s car crashes are caused by distracted driving. As April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the team at Patterson Legal Group wants to make sure that you and drivers in your household understand the three major types of distracted driving. Understanding cognitive, manual, and visual distractions goes a long way towards avoiding them.

Should you get into a car accident caused by a distracted driver then contact our car accident lawyers immediately. Our team of experienced Kansas injury lawyers are available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver. Source: KTSRO

Spring = More Bicyclists + Pedestrians

Statewide (March 20, 2023) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reminds drivers that spring is here, and with it comes more people riding their bikes or going out for walks. Some motorists will need time to acclimate to the increased activity. KDOT urges you to err on the side of caution in order to avoid car accidents.

Patterson Legal Group supports KDOT’s messages and asks drivers to be mindful of others. By working together to share the road safely, we can lower the number of bicycle accidents and pedestrian accidents. Our staff is available 24/7 should you get into an accident caused by the negligence or recklessness of another party. Source: KDOT

KDOT Reminds You to Keep Your Glass Clear

Statewide (November 14, 2022) – With evening temperatures already dipping into the teens, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reminds you to make sure that your car’s windshield and windows are clear before driving. The decreased visibility that comes with ice and snow accumulation increases your chances of a car accident.

Patterson Legal Group echoes KDOT’s advice and urges you to make sure that your car is ready for the winter before heavy snowfall begins. Sadly, weather-related fatalities are more common than most people think. The good news is that there are many simple things that you can do to get your car ready for winter that will greatly decrease your chances of an accident. Source: KDOT

Wichita Public Schools Open August 15

Wichita (August 8, 2022) – Wichita Public Schools (WPS) open on August 15, 2022. WPS has 89 schools that serve more than 46,000. Motorists will have to get reacclimated to school traffic patterns. As drivers and students get used to sharing the road, the chances of bus accidents, bicycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents will be higher during the second half of August.

Patterson Legal Group urges you to drive carefully and slowly while in and around school zones. Getting used to bus and student traffic takes some time. If a student in your family has been injured in a school zone accident caused by negligence or recklessness then contact us immediately. Source: WPS

KDOT Emphasizes Pedestrian Visibility

Statewide (July 27, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reminds pedestrians and drivers that lowering pedestrian accidents is a two-way street. KDOT shares tips for both walkers and motorists to follow. The agency claims that poor visibility causes many pedestrian accidents. Walkers can improve visibility by wearing bright or reflective clothing, only crossing the street at bright intersections, and sticking to sidewalks or pedestrian paths.

The agency also urges drivers to always keep an eye out for pedestrians, never pass other vehicles at a crosswalk, and to avoid distracted driving. Following these tips will help keep walkers and bicyclists safe, while reducing the number of Kansas car accidents. Source: KDOT

Highway Signs Can Lead to Distracted Driving

Statewide (June 9, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has reminded political candidates and incumbents that campaign signs are not permitted on highway right of way. As midterm elections near, political sign placement has become more aggressive. Signs can lead to distracted driving, which is dangerous under any circumstances, but especially when it involves driving at highway speeds.

KDOT hopes that politicians and their staffers obey the law and do not post signs along the state’s 9,500+ miles of highway. Following the rules and keeping signs where they belong will help all Kansas motorists avoid car accidents. Should you get into a car crash because of an illegally placed political sign then contact Patterson Legal Group for immediate assistance. Source: KDOT

Lack of Seat Belt Use Leads to Sedgwick Fatalities

Sedgwick County (May 16, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has reported that Sedgwick County leads the state in traffic accident fatalities. The agency noted that many Kansas car accident fatalities were due to drivers and passengers failing to use seat belts. Many of these deaths could have been avoided through proper seat belt use.

Assistant Bureau Chief of Transportation Safety for the Kansas Department of Transportation Chris Bortz noted, “Buckling up costs you nothing. Not buckling up could cost you everything. Buckle up for every trip, every time.” The Kansas personal injury lawyers at Patterson Legal Group remind you that it only takes a few seconds to buckle your seat belt. It’s a simple action that could save your life. Source: KDOT

October is National Pedestrian Safety Month

Statewide (October 5, 2021) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) would like to remind you that October is National Pedestrian Safety Month. Every year, thousands of people are killed in pedestrian accidents, with thousands more injured. Most of these accidents are avoidable with proper safety habits.

In addition to distracted driving and inattentive pedestrians, many accidents occur due to a lack of safe paths. “A lack of safe crossings, sidewalks, or separated paths creates potentially fatal interactions where the pedestrian doesn’t stand a chance against a vehicle,” said KDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator Jenny Kramer. Thankfully, local Kansas governments are working hard to make their towns safer for pedestrians. Source: KDOT

Kansas to Spend $5.2 Million on Rails

Statewide (September 8, 2021) – Governor Laura Kelly has announced that the state will spend $5.2 million on rail improvements as part of the Short Line Rail Improvement Fund Program. The money will help connect Kansas grain farmers with other businesses, creating conditions that should help everyone thrive. In addition to expansion, existing lines will be improved to enhance efficiency and safety, lowering the number of train accidents.

Kansas motorists will also benefit from the rail improvements. A larger train network means that fewer trucks will be used to transport grain. Heavy trucks are brutal on roads, often creating damage that can lead to car accidents. With less truck traffic, Kansas roads should be smoother and safer. Source: Kansas.gov

1,237 Work Zone Accidents in 2021

Statewide (May 12, 2023) – The Kansas Department of Transportation reported 1,237 work zone accidents in 2021. With the weather warming up throughout the state, construction activity is ramping up. Increased construction also increases the likelihood of a car accident in or near work zones. Patterson Legal Group urges you to drive through construction areas slowly and carefully.

Should you get into a work zone accident, the Kansas injury attorneys at Patterson Legal Group are available to assist you 24/7. Give us a call today if you’ve been injured in a construction zone due to the reckless actions of another party. Source: KSDOT

Pedestrian Deaths Down Two Years in a Row

Statewide (March 30, 2023) – Preliminary data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) indicates that pedestrian accident fatalities were down for the second year in a row in Kansas. The agency projected approximately 34% fewer pedestrian deaths in 2022 than in 2021. Kansas and Nevada were the only two states with two years of declines in pedestrian fatalities.

Patterson Legal Group is thrilled to learn that our state’s sidewalks and streets are safer for pedestrians. Our team encourages motorists to be mindful of pedestrians so that we can continue to move towards zero pedestrian deaths caused by car accidents. Let’s work together to keep everyone safe. Source: GHSA

Larger Vehicles Linked to Backover Accidents

Statewide (February 15, 2023) – The popularity of sports utility vehicles (SUVs) has been rising for the last few decades. More than half of consumer vehicles sold in the U.S. are SUVs, which currently outsell sedans by a two-to-one ratio. While people love SUVs for their capacity and convenience, they can be more prone to car accidents than sedans due to their blindspots and higher weight.

Backover accidents, classified as a driver backing up onto a pedestrian, are unfortunately common with larger vehicles. KidsAndCars.org claims that over 60% of backover accident injuries and deaths involved a larger vehicle, such as an SUV or truck. The predominant age of backover victims is 12-23 months. Source: KidsAndCars.org

Helmets Not Used in 57% Of Kansas Motorcycle Deaths

Statewide (September 16, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation’s (KDOT) annual report showed that of the 65 drivers that died in motorcycle accidents in 2020, 37 were not wearing helmets. Although Kansas motorcycle helmet laws only require helmet use for riders under the age of 18, data shows that chances of a catastrophic injury or death are greatly lowered through proper helmet use.

Patterson Legal Group reminds you that wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle decreases your risk of a brain injury by 69% and your chance of death by 37% in the event of a crash. Even though helmet use isn’t mandatory, you should probably wear one. Source: KDOT

Kansas Fatalities Up, But Below National Average

Statewide (August 17, 2022) – A recent report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) showed that Kansas traffic fatalities were up 5.6% in Q1 2022 compared to Q1 2021. However, that’s below the national increase of 7% and the regional increase of 12%. Kansas is part of NHTSA Region 7, which also includes Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Nebraska.

Patterson Legal Group urges you to do everything in your power to eliminate car accident fatalities. Simple steps like making sure that your car is ready for summer or winter conditions go a long way towards increasing your safety and the safety of your fellow drivers. Together we can drive traffic fatalities as close to zero as possible. Source: NHTSA

Inattention Leading Contributing Factor of Car Accidents

Statewide (July 14, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has posted a list of the top contributing circumstances to car accidents in 2020. The top three contributing factors were:

1. General Inattention (distracted driving)
2. Domestic or Wild Animals
3. Right of Way Violations 

Patterson Legal Group reminds you to always pay attention to the road and surrounding conditions. Please beware of wild animals, especially during deer season. Should you get into a car accident for any reason, remember that our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Source: KDOT

Speeding a Big Problem in Kansas

Statewide (June 17, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reported nearly 5,000 car accidents and 80 deaths in 2020 due to excessive speeding. The agency noted that the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) issued 1,758 citations in 2019, 2,823 citations in 2020, and 3,309 in 2021 for speeds of 100 mph or higher.

Speeding fatalities are particularly prevalent among young Kansas drivers. KDOT noted that 45% of all 2020 speed-related fatal crashes in Kansas were drivers between the ages of 15 and 29. The agency hopes to raise awareness of Kansas’ speeding problem, noting that there are more teen drivers during the summer months, as part of its Drive to Zero initiative. Source: KDOT

Kansas Traffic Deaths Up 4.5%

Statewide (May 10, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) have reported 117 traffic accident deaths this year. This figure is based on preliminary data through May 4, 2022 and represents a 4.5% increase over the same time period in 2021. Top causes of Kansas car accidents include speeding, reckless driving, and improper seat belt use.

The state agencies urge motorists to visit the Drive to Zero website to educate themselves on various safety issues. By learning the rules of the road and how to drive safely, we can help get traffic deaths as close to zero as possible. Unfortunately, some accidents happen no matter how safe you’re being. Contact a Kansas injury lawyer immediately should you get into an accident. Source: KDOT

Traffic Deaths Up in 2021

Statewide (January 10, 2022) – Preliminary data from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) lists 425 traffic deaths statewide in 2021, up 1% from 2020. As is the case in many states, distracted driving is the fastest growing cause of car accidents in Kansas. KDOT cited mobile phone use as the most common cause of distracted driving, contributing to 37% of deaths and 25% of injuries in all Kansas distracted driving accidents.

While a 1% increase in traffic deaths is lower than what many other states have reported, Patterson Legal Group would love to see that number decrease. Thankfully, many car accidents are avoidable through education and strong safety practices. Patterson Legal Group encourages you and the drivers in your family to review your safety knowledge and practices as 2022 starts. Source: KDOT

Kansas Ranked 19th-Worst Driving State

Statewide (October 22, 2021) – Kansas was ranked the 19th-worst driving state in America in a study conducted by QuoteWizard. The study analyzed more than two-million insurance quotes and ranked all 50 American states. The factors that determined the rankings included car accidents, citations, speeding tickets, and DUIs.

States with the most driving incidents ranked lower, while states with the least driving incidents ranked higher. Kansas, unfortunately, was ranked slightly worse than average. Patterson Legal Group hopes that drivers in our fine state work to improve this ranking by driving carefully and avoiding distracted driving. Source: QuoteWizard

KDOT Asks You To “Work With Us”

Statewide (April 17, 2023) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) asks motorists to “work with us” as part of  Work Zone Awareness Week (April 17-21). As the weather gets warmer, more and more construction zones appear throughout the state. The majority of work zone accidents are caused by the actions or inactions by drivers. Being mindful of construction zones and construction workers goes a long way towards reducing work zone car accidents.

Patterson Legal Group encourages you to drive safely through and around work zones. If you get into a construction zone accident caused by the negligence or recklessness of another driver then contact us for immediate assistance. Source: KDOT

Three Dead in Pratt County Crash

Pratt County (March 17, 2023) – Three people died in a car accident on March 17, 2023, two miles north of Preston in Pratt County. Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) officials reported that a 2004 Ford Taurus was traveling south on K-61 crossed the center line and crashed into a 2014 Ford Fusion. Both drivers and the passenger in the Fusion died from injuries incurred in the crash.

KHP identified the Taurus’ driver as 32-year-old William Fowler Stevens and the Fusion’s driver as 30-year-old Joshua Jamal Townsell. The name of the passenger was not revealed due to them being under 18. Patterson Legal Group sends thoughts and prayers to the families of the victims. Source: KWCH

KDOT Asks You to Join KanDrive

Statewide (August 26, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is encouraging Kansas motorists to create accounts on KanDrive. The freshly revamped map service allows you to see live traffic conditions, create an optimal path to your destination, view accurate travel time, schedule travel time alerts, and more. With its advanced features, KanDrive should allow you to save time and avoid car accidents.

Patterson Legal Group appreciates that KanDrive provides accurate information on construction zones. In addition to slowing down traffic, work zones have numerous conditions that increase your chances of an accident. KanDrive can help you avoid work zones, increasing your safety. KanDrive is available on Android, iOS, and your PC’s web browser. Source: KanDrive

Rain and Thunderstorms Expected

Statewide (July 29, 2022) – The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecasted chances of rain and thunderstorms throughout Kansas over the weekend. The inclement weather increases the chances of car accidents and fall accidents.

The Kansas personal injury lawyers at Patterson Legal Group urge you to be cautious while driving in the rain. If possible, try to delay your trip until after the storm has passed. If you’re walking then bring an umbrella and wear grippy shoes to reduce your chances of slipping and falling. Should you get into an accident caused by the negligence or recklessness of another party then contact us for immediate assistance. Source: NWS

KDOT Celebrates National Sunglasses Day

Statewide (June 27, 2022) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reminds drivers across that state that June 27 is National Sunglasses Day. The agency says that sunglasses can be a crucial part of avoiding a car accident or bicycle accident, especially in the summer.

Sunglasses can help eliminate glare, allowing drivers and riders to see more clearly. With increased sunlight hours, poor visibility often contributes to summer car accidents. As an added bonus, sunglasses also help protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. If it’s sunny outside then please wear sunglasses so that you can see more clearly and your eyes are more comfortable while you drive. Source: KDOT

KDOT Recommendations For Driving in the Rain

Statewide (May 25, 2022) – Heavy rains have been hitting large portions of Kansas and are expected to continue throughout the week. As such, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reminds residents and visitors to exercise proper safety measures in order to avoid a weather-related accident, including driving slowly and keeping headlights on while windshield wipers are engaged.

Should weather conditions become extreme, KDOT urges you to “turn around, don’t drown” in order to avoid a car accident. Should you get hurt in a car crash during the heavy rains, please note that Patterson Legal Group is available to assist you 24 you a day, 7 days a week. Source: KDOT

Free COVID Tests Available January 19

Statewide (January 17, 2022) – The federal government has launched a new website that allows United States households to receive four free COVID-19 tests. Starting January 19, 2022 people can go to COVIDtests.gov to sign up for free tests. The tests and shipping costs are free, and credit card information is not required to sign up.

In other COVID-19 news, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its mask guidelines. The agency notes that N95 and KN95 masks offer a higher degree of protection than surgical masks, which are still preferred over cloth masks. Regardless of mask type, a proper seal is needed for optimal protection. Souce: COVIDtests.gov

Kansans Share Their Accident Stories

Statewide (September 30, 2021) – As part of its “Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day” safety blog series, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is sharing stories from 14 people that have lost loved ones or had their lives saved in accidents. The stories include incidents of distracted driving, car crashes, improper seat belt use, and more.

Although traffic accidents are unfortunately common, some people think of them as things that only happen to others. The goal of the safety blog series is to attach faces and names to the accidents, so people realize that accidents can happen to them too. Ultimately, KDOT hopes that people take these stories to heart so that whenever they travel, they can arrive safely. Source: KDOT

KDOT Announces “Put the Brakes on Fatalities” Contest

Statewide (August 9, 2021) – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has announced a contest for students to help prevent car accident fatalities by encouraging motorists to drive more cautiously. The theme of the contest is “Put the Brakes on Fatalities.” Students ages 5 to 13 are invited to create posters, while students in grades 8-12 are invited to submit videos.

Prizes for the poster contest include an Amazon Kindle Fire tablet, a $50 Amazon gift card, movie passes, and money to be given to the student’s school, class, or booster club. Prizes for the video contest include a GoPro action camera, a DJI stabilizer, a DJI drone, and money for the student’s school, class, or booster organization. Source: KDOT

Two Additional Bacterium Possible at Tanganyika Splash Park

Goddard (July 6, 2021) – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) said that coliform and E. coli may have been present at Tanganyika Splash Park, in addition to the Shigella that was found to have made patrons sick. The agency said that park visitors have tested positive for the norovirus, sapovirus, and enteropathogenic E. coli. The KDHE is currently investigating if these infections were caused by contamination at the park.

Patterson Legal Group is currently fighting hard for the rights of people infected with Shigella at Tanganyika Splash Park. If you or a loved one have gotten ill after visiting Tanganyika Wildlife Park then contact us immediately. Source: The Wichita Eagle