Rise in Traffic Deaths, Rise in Litigation?

The United States Department of Transportation has provided statistics showing that in the year 2015, traffic deaths rose by 7.2 percent, with over 35,000 in traffic fatality collisions in the United States. The data provided by the U.S. Transportation Department of Transportation suggests that traffic deaths rose across every segment of the population, with no discrimination in any category. Interestingly, distracted driving was cited in about 1/10th of all traffic fatalities in the 2015 year.

The increased number of fatalities are due to increased driving, distracted driving (as previously mentioned), and the continued lack of use of seat belts, even though seat belts are standard equipment in all cars in the United States. (Half of the passenger vehicle occupants killed last year were not wearing seat belts.) Other statistics of interest are that almost one in three of the fatalities involved intoxicated drivers or speeding all of which resulted in increased claims and litigation as a result of the fatalities suffered. With increased traffic fatalities, greater distraction among drivers, the continued lack of use of seat belts, and increased fatalities involving drunk drivers or speeding, all on the rise, the attorneys at Heiting & Irwin are highly skilled and readily available to handle motor vehicle accidents and fatalities. Our Inland Empire car accident attorneys are available for consultation on all traffic related matters, including personal injuries and wrongful death. Call us today at (951) 682-6400 to schedule an appointment.

Written by: Attorney Dennis Stout