Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

Description

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides comprehensive data on motor vehicle crashes and fatalities across the Commonwealth. This data includes key topic areas such as crash locations, contributing factors (e.g., speed, impaired driving, distracted driving), vehicle types involved, injury severity, pedestrian and cyclist incidents, and demographic details. Communities, policymakers, and safety advocates can use this data to identify high-risk areas, develop targeted safety initiatives, inform policy decisions, and promote roadway safety for all users in Virginia.

How the Community can use the Data

Communities, local governments, safety organizations, and advocates can use the Virginia DMV Crash and Fatality Data to identify traffic safety concerns and high-risk areas within their regions. The data helps inform the development of targeted prevention programs, such as public education campaigns and infrastructure improvements, aimed at reducing crashes and fatalities. Policymakers and planners can also use the information to support data-driven decision-making, improve traffic enforcement strategies, and promote safer roadways for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists across Virginia.

Data Limitations

The data is based on reports from law enforcement agencies and not all crashes—particularly minor ones—may be reported or documented. Information accuracy can vary depending on the completeness of crash reports and the circumstances at the scene. There may be delays in data entry and updates, and some details, such as contributing factors, rely on officer judgment and may be subjective. Additionally, the data focuses on reported crashes and may not capture broader traffic safety issues or near-miss events.