New laws and improved vehicle technology means that the roads should be getting safer. Unfortunately, a new report issued by the Department of Transportation indicates just the opposite. Statistics gathered from 2015 show that traffic deaths rose last year. These figures show that the roads may not be as safe as they should be and there may be steps necessary to take to make them less hazardous.
Traffic Death Increases
The number of deaths attributed to traffic accidents rose in 2015 to more than 35,000 people. This was an increase of more than 7% over 2014. Additionally, the number of traffic deaths in 2016 is also on the rise. If the death rate continues on the same path it will likely increase over 2015 by as much as 10%. These numbers are troubling because this is the largest increase in more than 50 years.
Traffic Deaths are Often Avoidable
Traffic accidents are usually caused by human error. In fact, approximately 95% of all traffic-related deaths are found to be the result of human error, according to the report. Thus, the more miles that are driven, the more deaths will likely occur. Although there is no known reason for the increase in deaths last year, they may be due in part to the fact that more drivers are on the roads. The reduction in gas prices may result in more people taking to the roads than in the past decade.
Road to Zero Coalition
This month, the National Safety Council announced the “Road to Zero” coalition. This initiative is an effort to reduce traffic deaths to zero by the year 2046. The group intends to utilize several million dollars over the next few years to provide grants to projects that will help increase safety on the roads. Certainly some steps must be taken to try to reduce the number of traffic accidents and deaths on the roads.
Vehicle Accident Injuries and Deaths
Although new safety features have been implemented, the number of injuries and deaths in traffic accidents has been rising. More research needs to be done to determine the reasons for the deaths so that improvements can be made to vehicle safety. The number of deaths has not increased so drastically since 1966. While vehicles are infinitely safer than they were then, there are still improvements to be made.
Negligent Drivers
When a serious accident occurs, the cause needs to be determined and the negligent party must be held accountable. Those who are victims of vehicle accidents may be entitled to compensation for damages. Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and money for pain and suffering may be appropriate. If the victim died, his family may seek damages to cover funeral costs and loss of life. An experienced personal injury attorney fights for your rights and will represent your case to get you the money you deserve. Contact the skilled legal team at the Law Office of Patrick G. Shea to discuss your case today.
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