The vast majority of fatal car accidents are preventable. Data shows that these accidents are usually caused by driver negligence, which can include a wide range of factors such as running a red light, failure to yield the right of way, tailgating and other reckless actions. However, speeding and distracted driving top the list of some of the most serious dangers facing U.S. motorists today, according to a recent survey by the insurance company Esurance.
In the study, researchers analyzed the most recent fatal crash data from The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Focusing its analysis in four states, they found that speeding, alcohol use and distracted driving remain the top causes of death in motor vehicle accidents nationwide.
If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a crash by someone who engaged in these deadly behaviors in Boston, you could be entitled to personal injury or wrongful death compensation.
Contact the experienced attorneys at Michael Kelly for a free consultation today.
Leading Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
Early estimates from The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that 8,110 people died in motor vehicle accidents in the first quarter of 2019 alone. Some of the most common causes of traffic fatalities include:
- Speeding: Speed is named as a factor in at least 25 percent of all traffic deaths, according to NHTSA.
- Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence took the lives of 10,874 people on U.S. roads in 2017.
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who use a hand-held device while driving are four times more likely to be involved in an accident.
- Not Wearing a Seat Belt: More than 2,500 lives could be saved annually if everyone wore a seat belt.
Top Causes of Car Crashes
While the above-listed factors are contributors to fatal car accidents, top causes of car accidents in general include:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Drowsy driving
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Weather-related road conditions
- Aggressive driving
If you have been a victim in a crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and more. Our experienced attorneys can help you pursue the full and fair compensation that you are owed.
Car Accident Statistics
USA Today recently reported that 2018 was the third-deadliest year of the decade on American roads. In 2018:
- Approximately 36,750 people died in U.S. car accidents
- S. pedestrian deaths also hit a 28-year high
Data regarding injury crashes for 2018 is not yet published. But in 2017, there were 1,889,000 injury crashes reported in the country and a total of 6,452,000 crashes.
Types of Fatal Car Accidents
Any car accident has the potential to be fatal. Fatal crashes are more common when more force is involved. That’s why speeding is one of the leading factors in car accident deaths. The more violent the impact, the more severe the injuries are likely to be.
Common types of fatal car accidents include head-on collisions, T-bone accidents and rollover crashes.
Get the Legal Help You Need
Sadly, even the most responsible drivers are at risk of being injured or killed by a negligent driver. At Michael Kelly, our lawyers are highly skilled at performing in-depth investigations to identify who should be held accountable in car accident cases. We can help you through this difficult time and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us now for a free consultation.
