In 2019, estimates released by the National Safety Council showed that about 38,800 people died in motor vehicle accidents, a 2% decrease from 2018. Additionally, there was a decrease in the number of fatalities resulting from impaired drivers, along with a 10% decrease in the number of children killed in motor vehicle accidents. However, many experts believe that despite the overall decrease, these numbers are still much too high.
The report by the NSC credited the drop in deaths to risk mitigation actions, such as Vision Zero models, advanced driver assistance systems, and lowering the legal blood alcohol concentration limit. These actions have helped to decrease the number of car accidents, as well as the severity of them.
Despite the decrease in motor vehicle accidents, an increased number of pedestrians and bicyclists were killed on US roads, accounting for almost 20% of traffic deaths in recent years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that approximately 76% of pedestrian deaths occur after dark. 74% of the time, the pedestrian was crossing in the middle of the road, and 40% of the time the pedestrian was under the influence of alcohol.
Federal data shows that the percentage of pedestrians who were killed in traffic accidents in relation to the total number of all traffic deaths increased by 5% in a decade, rising from 12% in 2008 to 17% in 2018.
City experts attribute this rise in an increase in people biking or walking to work in metropolitan areas. Further, the increased use of smartphones, and an increase in excessive drinking, unreasonable speed may also contribute to the rise. Heidi Simon with the nonprofit America Walks, stated that the failure to adequately address street design, speed limits, have resulted in the deaths of people who walk and bike.
An experienced personal injury lawyer in Phoenix, Arizona can advise a collision victim regarding legal claims and the litigation process. The attorney can investigate fault, obtain witness statements and consult with an accident reconstructionist. The attorney can investigate available liability, uninsured and underinsured insurance policies.
The attorney will obtain the medical records, in appropriate cases and evaluate whether there are claims for permanent injuries, future treatment, costs, lost income. Experts may be consulted, such as a life care planner, economist.
There should be no charge for a consultation, there should be no fees, costs unless a settlement is obtained.
Thanks to the Law Office of Paul Englander, PLC for their insight into personal injury claims and car crash fatalities in 2019.