Alarming Trend: Shreveport Traffic Accident Injuries Skyrocket, Fatalities Up Sharply

You are more likely to be injured in a car crash in Shreveport than from almost any other incident. That’s the stark message delivered by Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith.

READ MORE: Shreveport's Most Dangerous Intersections

The Chief told the City Council there’s been an uptick in local traffic incidents. The latest stats he presented to the council shows a major increase in crashes resulting in injuries, and a he says most alarming in the report is a significant jump in traffic fatalities. He says many of these fatalities were pedestrians.

Injury Accidents See Steep Climb

Chief Smith highlighted a concerning spike in major accidents where the likelihood of injury is high. The data indicates that motorists in Shreveport are now significantly more likely to be hurt in a crash than in previous years.

What Are the Accident Numbers in Shreveport

• Major Accidents: The number of major accidents reported to the department has increased sharply, rising to 1,228 this year compared to 1,168 for the same period last year.

• Minor Accidents: Similarly, minor accidents (those with minor or no injuries) have also seen an increase, from 7,344 last year to 7,578 this year.

• Fatal Wrecks: There have been 42 fatality accidents so far this year, an increase from 35 for the same period last year.

READ MORE: Shreveport Leads State in Fatal Crashes

Pedestrian Vulnerability: The chief says about one-third of these fatalities involve pedestrians,

Chief Smith says "It appears that your chances in some cases are likely that you'll be injured as a result of an accident." He emphasized the severity of the growing problem.

The Chief also says Shreveport leads the state in DWI arrests and that continues to be a concern in our local community. He urges motorists not to try to get behind the wheel of a car if you have been drinking.

These numbers typically spike during the holidays and he will have crews specifically on the lookout for impaired drivers.