Does it seem like there’s been a drastic increase in auto accidents lately? There has been. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, car crashes have hit an all-time high. Last year, there were more than 38,000 deaths from auto and truck incidents alone. That’s an increase of nearly 7% from 2019!
Curious to know what has caused the highest number of road fatalities since 2007? Review the reasons below.
Yes, and no. While there were plenty of car accident deaths prior to the pandemic, there has been an undeniable spike in deaths by car crashes. In fact, USDOT’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported traffic fatalities for the first half of 2021 were up 18% from the national average. It’s believed this mind-blowing increase is directly related to the pandemic.
When you or a loved one are severely injured by the reckless behavior and actions of another, you need someone who will fight on your behalf. Contact Shapiro Law Team, the personal injury law firm. We will prioritize your needs and recover the settlement you need to move beyond the misfortune of this life-changing situation.
DUIs
It’s no secret that alcohol abuse has increased since the forced global shutdown of March 2020. The prolonged quarantine has only led to substantially more deadly car accidents caused by intoxicated or high drivers.
Stress
The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the emotional, physical, and mental well-being of kids and adults of all ages. Depression, anger, hopelessness, and loneliness are leading to a surge of reckless behavior. Unfortunately, many are turning to narcotics and alcohol to cope with their unease, discomfort, and uncertainty.
Additionally, the rise of stress bypasses aggression and goes straight to hazardous driving and negligence. This action endangers the driver as well as their passengers and other occupants on the road.
Speeding
Speed limits are enforced for a reason: safety. When vehicles exceed the set speed limit, drivers are more likely to lose control of their cars and harm themselves or others. This is true no matter what roads you operate your vehicle: street, highway, freeway, alleys, and backroads.
No seatbelt
It’s surprising to learn the number of auto accidents (and deaths) that could’ve been prevented by wearing a seatbelt. When in a collision, your body is jolted with an incredible amount of force and intensity. Not wearing a seatbelt can result in an ejection from your vehicle and likely death. If you or a loved one have been involved in a serious accident due to another’s negligence, contact the office of Shapiro Law Team. We’ve handled dozens of personal injury cases, and have secured substantial settlements for our clients. Together, we’ll help you hold the responsible parties accountable.
Unfortunately, car crash deaths during COVID-19 align with a slew of other life-threatening pandemic issues: record-setting overdoses, increasing homicides, and astonishing alcohol sales. To ensure you and your family remain safe, advocates of highway and auto safety encourage drivers to slow down and go back to the fundamentals of driving.
Technology can help prevent fatal car accidents:
It doesn’t matter how many car accidents you’ve been in, you should never handle a personal injury case without proper representation. With Shapiro Law Team fighting on your behalf, you can obtain adequate compensation for personal damages and medical expenses.
If you or a loved one has been in a serious collision resulting in a catastrophic injury or death, contact the Scottsdale office of Shapiro Law Team. Our attorneys are aggressive, persistent, and relentless. We’ll advocate on your behalf and keep your best interests at the forefront of everything we do. Don’t wait for another second to receive the justice you deserve. Call (480) 300-5405, request a free consultation or visit our office conveniently located in Scottsdale.