Many people feared the rise of the automobile for their teenagers because of it's impact on driving safety. in 1958, more than 51,000 deaths occurred as a result of auto accidents. in 1979, there were 41 deaths resulting from auto accidents per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. the amount is now 8 fatalities per 100 million vehicles miles travelled thanks to strict laws and better cars becoming available like air bags and seat belts.