“Serious injuries” are classified as those requiring medical consultation.

Costs are also up. The six-month estimated bill for traffic deaths, injuries and property damage is $152 billion— 24% higher than 2014.

While the high death and injury toll could be due to many factors, an improving economy with lower gas prices and unemployment rates herald increases in vehicle miles traveled. Average gas prices are 30% lower than they were in 2014 and are projected to remain relatively stable heading into 2016. This generally means an increase in traffic; more people can afford to drive, and many travel longer distances and take vacations.

Founded in 1913 and chartered by Congress, the National Safety Council is a nonprofit organization the mission of which is to save lives by preventing injuries and deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the road through leadership, research, education and advocacy. NSC advances this mission by partnering with businesses, government agencies, elected officials and the public in areas where it can make the most impact—distracted driving, teen driving, workplace safety, prescription drug overdoses and Safe Communities.