Suicides pass vehicle fatalities in U.S.

The New York Times reports deaths by suicide have surpassed car accident fatalities.

Citing recently released data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2010, 33,687 people died from motor vehicle crashes, while 38,364 died by suicide.

The surge has been driven by increased rates among middle-aged Americans, according to the Times, prompted by baby boomers who have faced years of economic worry. The article also pointed to easy access to prescription painkillers.

Read more from the New York Times.