NHTSA Data Reveals Increase in Fatal Traffic Accidents in 2015
Why is the number of traffic deaths on the rise?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently released preliminary accident data from 2015 which may reveal an alarming trend—traffic fatalities are up an estimated 7.7 percent. Approximately 35,200 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2015, up from the 32,675 fatalities in 2014. Although the data is still preliminary, early NHTSA estimates show nine out of ten regions in the United States had an increase in traffic fatalities in 2015. The most significant jump in deaths occurred among pedestrians and bicyclists.
NHTSA officials are taking this data seriously and working to uncover the reason for the rise in traffic deaths, as well as ways to protect citizens while they walk, bike, and drive. The agency will hold a series of six regional safety summits across the nation to discuss the causes of accidents and how to protect the public.
Possible Causes for the Increase in Traffic Fatalities
Human error is the number one cause of motor vehicle accidents. Accordingly, it is important to look at the behavior of drivers nationwide to uncover the reason for the rise in fatal accidents. One possible culprit is distracted driving. Since the advent of the smartphone and tablets, Americans are seemingly glued to our electronic devices. Cell phones are one of the most common distractors for drivers, now contributing to hundreds of thousands of accidents annually. Despite state laws banning texts and aggressive public service announcements proclaiming its dangers, people across the country continue to interact with their phone while driving. Distracted driving has become a monumental national problem. It is theorized that high rates of distracted driving, which often leads to serious crashes, could be behind the increase in fatal accidents in 2015.
If you are injured in a traffic accident in Georgia, the personal injury lawyers at Randall F. Rogers can help you protect your legal rights. We will review the facts surrounding your accident to determine your best avenue to achieve a full financial recovery. Call us today at (770) 590-0300 to schedule your free consultation.
Posted in: Automobile Wrecks