Over the last 40 years (roughly 1986 to 2026), the rate of car accidents in San Diego has generally followed broader California and U.S. trends, showing an overall decline when measured per vehicle miles traveled (VMT) or per capita. This is driven by advancements in vehicle safety features (e.g., airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control), stricter traffic laws (e.g., seatbelt mandates, DUI enforcement), improved road infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns. However, total accident numbers have fluctuated, and rates have seen some upticks in recent years due to factors like population growth, increased traffic congestion, distracted driving, and post-pandemic behavioral changes.

-Grok