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Worst Spike in Fatal Traffic Accidents in 30 Years

On Behalf of | Oct 4, 2016 | Car Accidents

In 2015, over 35,000 people died in fatal traffic accidents. This represents a 7.2 percent increase from 2014’s fatal traffic incident statistics, and the worst single-year increase since 1966. While roads throughout the nation have become safer, many variables increase the risk for drivers.

Why are More Drivers Crashing?

There are many factors leading to the increase in traffic accidents.

  • The economy has improved, putting more Americans at work. As more people commute to work by car, the likelihood of tired, distracted drivers, who aren’t paying enough attention while behind the wheel, increases.
  • Gas prices are cheaper, so people who may have cut back on their driving to save money are driving more. With more cars on the road, the potential for accidents naturally increases.
  • Increasingly, drivers face distractions behind the wheel. From augmented reality games like Pokemon GO to texts and social media notifications, smartphones lure drivers to interact rather than watch the road.

Fatal Traffic Accidents are Preventable

According to NHTSA data, distracted driving habits contributed to 10 percent of fatal auto wrecks in 2015. Thirty percent of driving fatalities involve speeding or alcohol. Half of all 2015 fatal crashes involved failure to wear a seatbelt. These factors are all choices that you can make to adopt safe driving habits. You can choose to not drink and drive, you can choose to wear a seatbelt, you can choose to observe posted speed limits, and you can choose to keep your smartphone in your pocket or your purse when you drive.

When Injured, Seek Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one was injured or died in a car accident, you have the right to redress in the courtroom. A personal injury lawyer can help you or your loved one seek compensation in relation to injuries or a settlement to reflect loss of life. This closure may help you to move on after the devastating accident.

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