The last article discussed causes of vehicle fires and prevention methods. Consumer feedback suggested most people believe car fires are rare occurrences unlikely to affect them personally. However, statistics from the National Fire Protection Association reveal otherwise.
Nationwide statistics show that "one out of five reported fires is a vehicle fire." Additionally, "18 percent of all fires take place on a highway or other road and involves a motor vehicle." The data indicates "33 car fires are reported every hour across our country." Between 2002 and 2005, one person per day died as a result of car fires.
According to the National Fire Incident Reporting System, teen drivers and young adults face the highest risk, with young males more likely to be affected than young females.
Key findings include: a vehicle fire occurs every 96 seconds in the United States. Notably, "75% of highway vehicle fires are caused by mechanical failures or other car malfunctions, not car accidents." However, collision-caused fires account for almost 60% of vehicle fire deaths. Surprisingly, "one out of every three vehicle fire injuries occur when the car fire victims attempt to fight the vehicle fire without the help of emergency workers."
In 2007, vehicle fires cost Americans $1.41 billion dollars. The statistics make clear that 75% of vehicle fires were preventable through proper maintenance and regular inspections.