A recent post here discussed the dangers and problems associated with texting and driving. A recent report from the National Safety Council revealed that car accident fatalities were up by 9 percent. If the trend continues, 2016 could be the deadliest year for drivers in the United States since 2007. According to the National Safety Council’s preliminary data, car accident fatalities increased by 9 percent for the first six months of 2016 compared to the same time period for 2015. The increase is 18 percent higher than for the same time period in 2014.
Since the beginning of the year, 19,100 victims have been killed in car accidents and another 2.2 million victims have been injured in car accidents. According to the National Safety Council, the estimated total cost of the fatalities and injuries is $205 billion. The increase began in 2014 and shows no signs of ending. A number of tips that most drivers are commonly aware of, such as ensuring the vehicle is in good condition, being aware of the surroundings and planning ahead, can all help when it comes to reducing car accidents.
In addition, last year in Oklahoma over the Labor Day holiday weekend 66 percent of car accidents involved impaired driving. Oklahoma offers ride programs to help everyone get home safety, especially during holiday periods. When a loved one has been the victim of a drunk driving accident, families may be left facing unanticipated consequences during an understandably emotional time. As a result, legal options may be available to help surviving family members of victims recover compensation for the damages they have suffered.
Victims of car accidents and surviving family members should always be familiar with the different legal options that may be available to help them based on their unique situation and circumstances.
Source: Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise, “Report: Motor vehicle fatalities on the rise, authorities urge caution for holiday,” Tim Hudson, Aug. 31, 2016
