Considering the number of accidents that occur on the highway in Illinois and across the U.S., it is beneficial for research to be conducted to determine the causes of these crashes. While knowing how and why it happened might not provide a great deal of solace to those who were hurt or lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, this research can be useful when deciding whether to file a case to receive compensation. Research by the National Safety Council found that more than 40,000 people were killed in accidents on the road in the U.S. in 2016. This was the highest number in 10 years.
The number of people killed in car accidents increased by 6 percent from 2015 and by 14 percent from 2014. This is the greatest rise in 53 years. The month in which the most fatal accidents occurred was October when there were 3,790 deaths. The fewest came in January with 2,740. According to the study, in 2016, there were 12.4 deaths for every 100,000 people. This was a 5 percent rise from 2015. Researchers approximate that around 4.6 million injuries required medical help in 2016. This was a rise of 7 percent from 2015.
Part of the reason that NSC researchers believe there has been an increase in accidents and fatalities is the improving economy. As the economy improved in recent years, the number of people on the road has increased as well. Another issue is teens and younger drivers using smartphones for texting and emailing while driving. People between the ages of 15 and 24 are viewed as responsible for this change.
Drivers must always be aware of the risks they face when they head out onto the road. This is also true for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists. The number of accidents that are occurring is a worrisome trend regardless of the reason. With a fatality, the family will experience pain and suffering on an emotional and financial level. Regardless of the results of the accident, it is important that those who have been affected understand what caused it whether it was negligence, recklessness or any other reason. Speaking to an attorney who is experienced in pursuing cases after an automobile accident can help with an investigation and filing a claim.
Source: CNN, “Some blame the economy for rise in highway deaths,” Susan Scutti, Feb. 15, 2017
