An Increase in Motor Vehicle Accident Deaths in 2016
Our Nashville Car Accident Attorneys Work Hard to Protect You after a Crash
As supported by data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Safety Council (NSC), 2016 was the deadliest year on American roadways in nearly a decade. Consider the following statistics about car accidents and related injuries and deaths, as well as what may be to blame for the surge–
2016 a Deadly Year for Motorists Across the Nation
The NSC, based on preliminary data, believes that the number of people who died in car accidents in 2016 is 40,000, a number which is six percent higher than 2015 figures, and fourteen percent higher than 2014 numbers. The NCS further reports that the jump from 2014 is the most serious change over a two-year period that has been recorded since the year 1964. In addition to the high number of motor vehicle-related fatalities, there were also approximately 4.6 million people injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2016. The costs of property damage from motor vehicle crashes were twelve percent higher in 2016 than it was in 2015.
Why the Increase in Motor Vehicle Traffic Deaths?
While the precise reason for the surge in motor vehicle-related deaths is unknown, researchers have recorded a number of factors that contribute to crashes. For example, nearly two-thirds of drivers say that they are comfortable speeding, and nearly half say that they are comfortable texting while behind the wheel. Because more people have cellphones than ever before, it is possible that the ubiquitous nature of smart devices has resulted in distracted driving, which has contributed to more crashes.
The use of alcohol prior to driving, or while driving, is also a worry. An article published in The New York Times quotes the executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association, who said that, “belts, booze and speed” are the things that kill drivers the most. The reference to “belts” is in regard to drivers not wearing their seatbelts.
What You Can Do to Reduce Your Chance of Being Involved in a Crash
Not all crashes are avoidable; dangerous drivers exist, and sometimes, there is nothing that you can do to avoid them. With that in mind, there are a number of things that you can do to reduce the risk of being involved in a crash, including:
- Driving at a speed that is safe for conditions;
- Driving while sober and well-rested – driving while fatigued may be as dangerous as driving while alcohol impaired;
- Maintaining your vehicle and servicing it on a regular basis;
- Following posted traffic laws; and
- Never driving aggressively.
In addition to the above, always buckle up. Wearing a seatbelt reduces your risk of serious and fatal injuries if a crash does occur.
Learn About Your Options After a Crash in Nashville
If you are involved in a car accident in Nashville and are seriously harmed, be sure to contact our experienced Nashville car accident attorneys at the offices of Bednarz Law. With more than six decades of combined experience, we know what we’re doing when it comes to advocating for clients during the claims process. A consultation is free – contact us today online or by phone to begin.