Contrary to the national trend, California's drivers get worse

April 11, 2013 (Press-News.org) Overall, Americans seem to be improving their driving skills. In 2011, the number of fatal collisions dropped to the lowest it has been in more than 60 years. Recent federal transportation data indicates that 32,367 people were killed in traffic accidents in 2011, a decrease of 1.9 percent from 2010.

Although the nationwide trend is toward fewer fatal car accidents, not all of the information is positive. Additional research indicates that a startling number of drivers have actually fallen asleep at the wheel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released an alarming statistic that one in four U.S. adults has admitted to falling asleep at the wheel. This statistic is especially disturbing since as high as 33 percent of traffic accidents involve drowsy drivers.

California drivers not as lucky

Unlike the national decline, the state of California has experienced a 2.6 percent increase in the number of fatal traffic accidents. In fact, California had the second highest number of automobile fatalities in 2011, with a total of 2,791.

Furthermore, fatal incidents involving pedestrians continue to be problem in California. A recent study concluded that in Los Angeles, pedestrians accounted for almost one-third of all traffic fatalities. This statistic is almost triple the national average.

Recognizing the problem, California takes action

Recently, cities such as Los Angeles have started focusing on the safety of their pedestrians. Los Angeles recently created a position, "Pedestrian Coordinator," to oversee efforts to improve pedestrian safety. The primary responsibility of the Pedestrian Coordinator is to improve the conditions of all public services used by pedestrians.

Moreover, Los Angeles also started a new campaign in its fight against pedestrian fatalities. With support of the city's mayor, the Watch the Road Campaign was initiated to decrease the number of all types of traffic accidents in California. For instance, the city is currently in the process of updating all of its crosswalks with crosswalks that are more visible to pedestrians. The hope is that these bold features will make drivers and pedestrians more aware of foot traffic on the roads.

Although the state's efforts to decrease traffic fatalities are honorable, it is undeniable that the negligent conduct of many other parties contributes to such accidents. As the studies indicate, an astonishing number of drivers are actually falling asleep while operating a moving vehicle and engaging in other distracting dangerous behaviors.

Seek legal help

If you have suffered substantial or catastrophic injuries or a family member has been killed in an automobile accident caused by someone else's negligence, you are entitled to be compensated for all of the harms you have suffered. You should promptly contact an experienced personal injury attorney with a proven track record of handling and trying major injury cases who can assist with a prompt investigation to obtain the evidence to prove liability and who can present your damages in an effective manner that will maximize your financial recovery.

Article provided by Biren Katzman Trial Lawyers
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