The Disturbing Trend of Traffic Fatalities: How Can You Stay Safe?

Traffic deaths have hit an all-time high since 2005. According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report released on April 18, 2023, approximately 43,000 persons died in motor vehicle accidents on U.S. highways in 2021. This marks a 10% increase over the previous year, making it the greatest year-to-year percentage increase since the agency began collecting data in 1975.

• The report also discovered that the estimated number of people injured on U.S. roadways increased from 2.3 million in 2020 to 2.5 million in 2021, a 9.4% year-on-year increase. This is a disturbing trend that we must all take seriously.
• According to the NHTSA, drunk driving, not wearing a seat belt, and speeding are some of the primary causes of traffic deaths and injuries, up 14%, 8.1%, and 7.9% year over year, respectively.
• Pedestrians and cyclists are also at heightened risk, with fatalities increasing by 13% and 1.9% from 2020 to 2021.

Federal, state, and local officials are concerned about this issue.

• The federal government announced $1 billion in funding this week to assist local, regional, and tribal governments and metropolitan planning organizations in improving road safety for all users.
• In addition, the U.S. Department of Transportation launched a $350 million pilot initiative to address the more than 1 million incidents involving wildlife and vehicles that occur each year.
• Both programs support the National Roadway Safety Strategy unveiled by the Transportation Department in January 2022, which seeks to eliminate roadway deaths and serious injuries.

But, as an individual, what can you do to help reduce the risk of road accidents and injuries?

• First and foremost, always wear your seat belt and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Keep your speed under control, especially in locations where cyclists and pedestrians may be present.
• Finally, if you’re involved in an accident, it’s important to seek legal advice from a reputable personal injury law firm in Texas.

At McCraw Law Group, we have decades of experience assisting people who have been harmed in car accidents. Our attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can have. We’re here to assist you in navigating the legal system and obtaining the compensation you deserve. If you have been involved in an automobile accident, please get in touch with us for your free virtual case consultation. Our team of experienced attorneys will explain your rights and alternatives to you and fight for the justice you deserve.