In 2017, over 34,000 car accidents took place in America that caused 37,133 deaths. This works out to about 11.4 deaths for every 100,000 individuals, and 1.16 fatalities for every 100 million miles driven.
The rate of fatality varies depending on the area. In Mississippi, the fatality rate was 23.1, while in the District of Columbia it was 4.5.
Additionally, the rate of death for every 100 million miles driven was also different in varied locations. In Massachusetts, it was .58, and in South Carolina, it was 1.80.
The numbers from previous years are lower. In 2015, 32,166 car accidents occurred that caused death; and in 2009, 30,797 deadly vehicle crashes took place.
Why Is There an Increase in Deadly Vehicle Accidents?
Several different impacts could be a factor here. One big one is likely the loose law enforcement regulations on speeding, intoxicated driving, and seatbelt laws. A lot of states don’t deem a driver who doesn’t have a seatbelt on to be something that a police officer can stop someone for. Roughly half of the deadly car accidents occur to individuals who don’t have their seatbelt fastened, and a third of them take place because a driver was intoxicated.
Speeding is likely another factor in many of these situations. A research professional found that crashes increased by less than 5%, but the rate of deaths went up by 25%. Speeding seems to be the primary issue. Often, only a few troopers are available in any given area, so there’s only so much they can do.
Other simple reasons might also play a role in the increase. Common distractions like speaking with passengers, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, or even using technology are even causing accidents.
After a Fatal Car Accident
If you’ve been involved in a fatal car accident, it might be wise to look into ways personal injury lawyers help. All victims of car collisions have rights, including to deny offering a statement to anyone. All car accident victims have rights to pursue damages for the emotional, physical, and financial devastation that they’ve gone through because of another person’s inattention or negligence.
Victims of vehicle collisions should be aware that they could take legal action against anyone involved who might have played a role in the crash, including the driver. However, this is often when a car accident lawyer is helpful as insurance companies often try to put off or even reject claims.
One potential course of action to follow after a fatal car accident is to file a claim for wrongful death. This can be done since the collision caused the harm that caused the passenger or driver’s fatality. Since the loved one passed away, a wrongful death claim can be initiated against the liable party. In some cases, a surviving dependent or relative might pursue this claim. For more details regarding these kinds of proceedings, consult with a legal professional that specializes in fatal car accidents and wrongful death cases.
