Distraction, Speeding, and Alcohol Drive Up 2021 Traffic Deaths

The United States is in the middle of a grave road safety crisis, with approximately 43,000 fatal traffic accidents expected in 2021. This is the largest amount in the past 16 years and represents a 10.5% rise over the previous year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Agency (NHTSA) has issued its final 2021 data, which is disturbing.

Distracted driving is a significant cause of this surge in fatalities. According to the NHTSA, fatal collisions involving at least one distracted driver have increased by 12 percent. This indicates that 3,522 persons died as a result of a driver’s inattention on the road. To counteract this problem, the NHTSA has launched a $5 million advertising campaign to retain motorists’ attention on the road. Yet, agency officials feel that police likely underreport such events. 

Year-over-year, pedestrian fatalities rose by 13%, while bike fatalities rose by 2%. The number of unbuckled passengers killed grew by 8.1%, while drunk driving fatalities increased by 14%. In addition, the fatalities attributable to speeding rose by 7.9%, while the fatalities involving heavy vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds rose by a staggering 17%.

These alarming numbers should serve as a wake-up call to all motorists. Distracted driving, excessive speeding, and driving under the influence are preventable causes of accidents that can result in severe injuries or death. 

As a personal injury legal practice, we are intimately familiar with the devastation that automobile accidents can cause to individuals and their families. Hence, we are committed to assisting people hurt by the carelessness of others. If you or a loved one are involved in an automobile accident, our expert attorneys can assist you in obtaining the compensation you are entitled to.

Technology is available today, such as “do not disturb” modes, apps, and in-car systems monitoring drivers to ensure they pay attention. We recommend that drivers utilize these tools and refrain from using cell phones or indulging in other distracting activities while driving.

Finally, we concur with retired General Motors executive Steve Kiefer, whose son Mitchel was killed in a distracted driving accident in 2016, that distracted driving deaths are linked to America’s cell phone addiction. Kiefer’s organization combats distracted driving, and he asserts that legislation limiting hand-held cell phone use has reduced road fatalities, accidents, and insurance premiums in 25 states. 

The surge in road accident fatalities is a cause for grave concern, and drivers must be aware and cautious on the road. If you or a family member are injured in a car accident, at McCraw Law Group, we are here to assist you. Call us now for a complimentary consultation.