Traffic fatalities in motor vehicle accidents increase in 2012
Deaths in car accident fatalities increase in 2012 according to recent reports.
March 15, 2013
Traffic fatalities in motor vehicle accidents increase in 2012Article provided by Dano ? Gilbert PS
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Most of us spend a significant amount of time driving. Whether we are commuting to work or just running errands, we rely upon our vehicles to help make our lives easier. We know that there is a risk of being in an accident whenever we are out on area roadways, but believe that if we remain alert, we can avoid being injured in a crash.
However, no matter how safe we think we might be behind-the-wheel, we do not know if other drivers are acting responsibly. We can be involved in a car accident simply by being in the wrong place at the wrong time, no matter what we do.
According to National Safety Council, a nonprofit organization that reviews safety matters throughout the United States, there was an increase in the number of people killed in car and truck accidents in 2012. The group examined data from state accident reports, and estimated that over 36,200 people were killed in accidents in 2012, which tops the 2011 number of 34,600. This is the first time these numbers have increased since the 2005 report.
Additionally, the report states that the number of crashes that caused injuries also increased in 2012. Over 3.9 million crash injuries were estimated, an increase of 5 percent over 2011 numbers.
Officials point to many reasons why the increase in traffic deaths may have occurred. The improving economy has led to more people getting behind-the-wheel. More cars on roads mean not only more motor vehicle accidents, but also more collisions with bicyclists or pedestrian as well.
Distracted driving is also thought to be a factor in several of these accidents. Many jurisdictions do not record information that would show the accident was caused by a distracted driver, so it is unknown exactly how many injuries resulted due to drivers who were not paying attention.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, speak to an experienced personal injury attorney regarding your ability to recover compensation. Every accident is different, and each will be caused by different factors. It will be necessary to review the circumstances of your case to understand how best to proceed.
Before resolving your claims, you will want to know the extent of the injuries that you may have suffered during the crash. Insurance companies may get you to settle very early in the process, before you have a clear picture of the expenses associated with your recovery. These companies are not on your side, and are simply looking out for their bottom lines. Any settlement that you agree to can prevent you from being able to recover the compensation you need to pay for your expenses.