Indiana has seen a 33 percent increase in car accident deaths since 2014, according to preliminary data from the National Safety Council (NSC).
The state-wide trend in rising traffic fatalities is concerning to Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak’s South Bend auto accident attorneys. If you are in need of qualified legal representation after a car accident, contact us for a free, no obligation consultation.
Traffic Fatalities Increase Throughout the U.S.
The increase is part of a national trend, as the number of U.S. car accident deaths in the first six months of 2016 was nine percent higher than the same period in 2015 and 18 percent higher than in 2014, according to the NSC.
Since January, approximately 19,100 people have died in motor vehicle crashes, with 2.2 million people sustaining serious injuries. The cost of these accidents is estimated to be $205 billion.
The increase in driving fatalities has prompted the NSC to release its highest estimate for Labor Day driving deaths (438) since 2008.
One of the main reasons for the increase in traffic deaths is that Americans drove 3.3 percent more miles in the first six months of this year compared to the same time in 2015. The increase in miles driven has been fueled by gas prices that were 16 percent lower this year compared to last year.
States that saw the most significant increases in motor vehicle deaths since 2014 include:
- Florida (43 percent)
- Georgia (34 percent)
- California (31 percent)
- North Carolina (26 percent)
- Illinois (24 percent)
- Kentucky (24 percent)
Tips for Safe Driving
The NSC advises drivers to take the following precautions to avoid a fatal accident:
- Always wear a seatbelt.
- Avoid drowsy driving by getting enough sleep.
- Avoid using cellphones, including hands-free models.
- Avoid impaired driving by having a designated driver or using alternate transportation.
- Learn how to use safety systems in your car, including cruise control, backup cameras and blind spot warning systems.
Contact Our Experienced Car Accident Attorneys
If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, you may be able to obtain compensation for pain and suffering, funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other expenses. Contact a South Bend personal injury lawyer at Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak to learn more about your legal options.
Call (574) 444-0741.
