To determine the estimated yearly total cost of motor-vehicle crashes in the U.S., let's consider each option in context. Here is a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Understanding the Choices:
- Option A: [tex]$230,000
- Option B: $[/tex]230 million
- Option C: [tex]$230 billion
- Option D: $[/tex]2.3 trillion
2. Context of Motor-Vehicle Crashes:
Motor-vehicle crashes typically result in significant economic impacts due to medical expenses, vehicle damages, productivity losses, legal costs, and other related expenses. These factors collectively involve large sums of money.
3. Evaluating Each Option:
- Option A: [tex]$230,000 is too low when considering the nationwide scale of motor-vehicle accidents and their associated costs.
- Option B: $[/tex]230 million is still relatively low given the extensive damages and losses typically reported.
- Option C: [tex]$230 billion is plausible given the scale and the financial aspects involved. It encompasses comprehensive costs including medical expenses, property damage, loss of productivity, etc.
- Option D: $[/tex]2.3 trillion is excessively high and doesn't align with commonly reported figures for yearly costs.
4. Conclusion:
Based on evaluating the extensive nature of motor-vehicle crashes and their combined economic impact, the most reasonable and accurate estimate for the yearly total cost falls within the billions.
Thus, the estimated yearly total cost of motor-vehicle crashes in the U.S. is:
Option C: $230 billion.
