Authorities keep track of people injured and killed in car accidents, as well as what they believe caused those crashes. As of mid-June, there were 132 deaths on the state highways. This is a slight rise from one year ago when the number was 127, but it is a significant rise from 2015 (106) and 2014 (92). In total, there were 311 fatalities in a car collision on the Connecticut roadways in 2016.
The National Safety Council states that there were 40,200 fatalities on the national roadways in 2016. This is the highest number for 10 years. It is also a rise of 6 percent from 2015 and 14 percent from 2014. This is the greatest increase in more than 50 years.
It is believed that 2016 was the worst year for fatalities on the road since 2007. In addition, there were approximately 4.6 million injuries where the person required medical attention. This came to $432 billion in costs.
While most drivers — 83 percent — who took part in a survey on driving behaviors stated they were concerned about safety on the road, there were still many who took part in various dangerous behaviors while driving. Sixty-four percent admitted to speeding; 47 percent texted while driving; 13 percent drove under the influence of marijuana; and 10 percent said they drove after consuming too much alcohol.
Other factors could be involved in the rise in accidents, including lower gas prices, but the number of accidents — for whatever reason — is troubling. Those who have been involved in a car collision should be aware of these statistics and surveys. There can be serious injury, medical expenses, lost time at work and death after a car crash. Having advice and help from a legal professional experienced in pursuing compensation after a car accident is beneficial to moving forward with a case.
Source: ctpost.com, “With 132 killed, death toll surges on Connecticut roads,” Jim Shay, June 16, 2017
