According to preliminary 2016 data from the National Safety Council (NSC) released last week, motor vehicle accident fatalities are at their highest since 2007. Perhaps more alarmingly, we’ve just experienced the greatest 2-year increase in motor vehicle-related fatalities in over 50 years. NSC President and CEO Deborah A.P. Hersman has stated that this spike in car accident deaths is at least partially due to “complacency” by drivers.
While the numbers may change slightly, the preliminary data released by the NSC in previous years has typically been fairly accurate. According to this data, there were approximately 40,000 motor vehicle accident fatalities in 2016. This represents a 6% increase from 2015, and a 14% increase from 2014.
The findings of a recent NSC survey list some potential causes for this spike in car accident deaths, including:
- Speeding
- Cell phone use while driving
- Driving under the influence
The organization has proposed some potential solutions to hopefully curb this spike in accident deaths. Their recommendations include:
- Requiring ignition interlock devices for all convicted drunk drivers
- Automated enforcement of speed limit violations
- Full bans on cell phone use while driving, including with hands-free devices
- Making the use of safety features such as automated emergency warning, blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning systems standard on most vehicles
- Stricter seatbelt laws
- A three-tiered licensing system for all new drivers under the age of 21
If you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by the negligence of another driver, you may be entitled to recover compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit. While no amount of money can truly compensate you for your loss, a wrongful death settlement can help you and your family stay financially afloat during this difficult time in your lives.
The attorneys at Wilson Law, P.A. have been fighting for the rights of car accident victims in the Raleigh area since 2000. We know the complex issues which impact these cases, and we can help you prove that the other driver’s negligence caused the loss of your loved one. This experience is crucial when battling the high powered legal teams employed by the insurance company.
Please contact Wilson Law, P.A. using the form on this page or call (919) 800-0919 today to schedule your free car accident consultation. We serve clients in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and throughout North Carolina.