Traffic Deaths Continue to Rise in 2015, 2016

Traffic deaths in the U.S. are rising at an alarming rate.

In 2015, fatal car crashes increased 7.2% from the previous year. And, preliminary numbers for the first half of 2016 show a 9% increase over the same period last year.

So far this year, more than 19,000 people have lost their lives in car crashes, and an additional 2.2 million have suffered injuries. Given these numbers, the National Safety Council estimates that this year could be the deadliest Labor Day weekend in 8 years.

Why are fatal accidents up so much, and what can we do about it?

On one hand, cars are getting safer. Safety equipment and technology have improved remarkably over the last decade, with many life-saving features now standard on new models. Yet traffic deaths continue to climb.

According to National Safety Council CEO Deborah Hersman, “Our complacency when it comes to highway fatalities is killing us.” 

Lower gas prices and an improved economy have to lead to more people driving more miles.  But the higher number of drivers on the road does not alone account for the increase in fatal accidents. The majority of car crash deaths can be attributed to human error. Distracted driving has played a big part in the uptick in traffic fatalities in recent years. While it is tragic to think of how many lives are lost while drivers are texting, snapping photos, or checking social media, it’s important to remember that these crashes are avoidable.

The numbers are high, but they’re not beyond our control. Reducing the number of people killed on the road is the responsibility of every driver and pedestrian. Simple things, like refusing to check your phone while driving, can make a big difference.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car crash, contact our car accident lawyer for a free consultation. We do not charge a fee unless we win on your behalf.