How careful are you when you’re on the road? A sobering new statistic from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is sure to be a prudent reminder.
Traffic fatalities soared 10 percent last year, to a 16-year high. 42,915 people died in fatal traffic collisions in 2021. Furthermore, the NHTSA reported “fatal multivehicle pileups and crashes on urban roads were up 16 percent. Fatalities among senior citizens jumped 14 percent. Deaths involving at least one large truck soared 13 percent, as did pedestrian fatalities. Deaths of bicyclists were up 5 percent, as were fatal crashes involving speeding and alcohol. Driving overall was up 11 percent.”
To be fair, driving and accidents were down in 2020, thanks to nationwide lockdowns—but traffic deaths are still the highest they’ve been in 16 years.
What’s responsible for the increase?
Safety advocates have pointed out that an increase in dangerous driving during the pandemic has contributed to the higher fatality rate. They also suggest that roads “built for speed instead of safety” has helped “wipe out a decade and a half of progress.”
While President Biden signed the Safe Streets and Roads for All program into law last November, it’s incumbent upon every driver to drive safely and defensively. Federal and state agencies are working to clean up the roads, but ultimately, dangerous and distracted driving are the biggest hazard to others.
What to do if you’re injured in an accident
If you were injured, or a loved one was killed in a traffic collision, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses. If the other drivers involved were negligent or reckless, you should be able to pursue a claim against their insurance company (or another appropriate entity, depending on the facts of the case) for medical expenses, lost wages and more. Surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death case.
Once your medical condition is stable, the most important thing to do is call an attorney as soon as possible. Ohio has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, and that time can pass quickly.
When you call the Law Offices of Tim Misny, we’ll review the facts of your case together. If you have an actionable claim, we’ll explain your options and get to work, whether that’s handling the insurance company or filing a lawsuit against another party.
Get help with your Ohio car accident claim
Were you injured as a result of someone else’s negligence or recklessness? Whomever is responsible, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Get in touch with me at 877-614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case as soon as possible.
