Injury in Utah

In 2009, more than 1,500 Utahns - or 30 people every week - died from injuries. Each year, treating injuries costs Utahns an average of $486 million dollars in hospitalization and emergency department charges. Injuries are the leading cause of death for Utahns ages 1-44, with poisonings, firearms, and motor vehicle crashes the leading methods.

On average every year in Utah:

• 1,500 Utahns die as a result of an injury;
• 11,100 Utahns are hospitalized from serious injuries; and
• 171,300 Utahns are treated in the emergency department due to injuries.

Injuries are divided into two main types: intentional and unintentional. Intentional injuries include those due to rape and sexual assault, domestic violence, and suicide. Unintentional injuries include those that result from motor vehicle crashes, falls, and bicycle crashes, to name a few.

Research shows that most injuries are predictable and preventable.

The proper use of car seats and seatbelts, helmets, and locking and unloading firearms would save thousands of lives every year.

Our Mission

The Utah Department of Health Violence and Injury Prevention Program is to be "a trusted and comprehensive resource for data and technical assistance related to violence and injury. This information helps promote partnerships and programs to prevent injuries and improve public health."

To accomplish our mission, we collaborate with many partners to:

1. Collect injury data and conduct injury research.
2. Conduct education to increase awareness of injury causes and prevention.
3. Support legislation and enforcement efforts that reduce injury hazards and increase safe behaviors.
4. Plan and implement community-based injury prevention programs and activities.