In Pittsburgh and across the nation, law enforcement, government entities and auto manufacturers are seeking to improve safety in a variety of ways. Making certain drivers are obeying the laws, implementing safety protocols and installing new safety devices are all steps that are being taken. Unfortunately, there are still a significant number of fatal accidents on U.S. roadways. The latest research from the National Safety Council indicates that the number of deaths on the road decreased from 2016 to 2017, but the amount reduced was minuscule. Given the frequency of fatal car accidents, it is vital for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one to be aware of these statistics and how they can affect a legal filing.
In 2017, there were more than 40,000 fatalities on U.S. roads. This is the second consecutive year that the total has surpassed 40,000. The NSC estimates that there were 40,100 fatalities, down 1 percent from 2016 when there were 40,327 fatalities. This comes on the heels of the largest two-year rise in five decades. The total in 2017 was still 6 percent higher than the total for 2015. The NSC is seeking to encourage drivers to take extra caution and to make certain that they wear their seatbelts, whether it is required by state law or not.
There were around 4.57 million serious injuries caused by car accidents in 2017. In terms of medical expenses and property damage, this cost $413.8 billion. In both cases, that is around 1 percent less than the numbers in 2016. Various factors are thought to be the cause of the number of accidents. Distracted driving is a major problem. Even attempts on the part of auto manufacturers and smartphone manufacturers to improve safety have not had the desired effect. The NSC’s statistics are not just from the road but also include accidents on private property, such as driveways and parking lots.
People who have lost a loved one in a fatal accident might not think that statistical assessments are important to their cause. However, it can be key to a case if there was a distracted driver, negligence, recklessness, driving under the influence or a problem with the automobile itself. Having legal assistance to examine the case and find evidence as to its cause is imperative. A lawyer who is experienced in wrongful death cases can help.
Source: thedrive.com, “Motor Vehicle Deaths Topped 40,000 Again in 2017,” Kate Gibson, Feb. 16, 2018