Cobb County is seeing an increase of car accidents over the years. Recent data, according to the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, shows that in 2014 there were 26,921 total crashes, with 8,642 injuries and 49 deaths.

There could be a variety of reasons for these increases. The Atlanta Regional Commission speculates that population increase and commute into regions of Atlanta play a role.

The daily vehicle miles traveled by Cobb County residents in 2015 was 20,827,448. According to the ARC, there is a continued increase of commuter traffic through suburban areas. Overall, in 2014, Cobb grew by 730,981.

And here's a startling piece of information to consider:

Out of the 49 deaths that took place in 2014, over 50 percent of these passengers were not wearing a seat belt!

Seat belts could reduce risk of injury by 45 percent. Please, don't forget to buckle before you drive.

Here are some safety tips worth remembering:

• Don't speed
• Wear your seatbelt - always
• And put away all distractions

If you've been injured in a car accident in Cobb County, fill out our free case evaluation.