Automobile accidents are one of the leading causes of death in the US, as well as a wide range of injuries—from spinal damage to traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and more—all of which can be long-term and debilitating (and may escalate into serious financial problems too if going to work is not a possibility). Along with car crashes and fatalities, motorcyclist, bicyclist, and pedestrian accidents have been on the rise too, and especially in Florida.

City and federal officials have continued to worry about and examine the growing problem, while instituting improvements via infrastructure, law enforcement measures, and public safety information. And while recent data shows that traffic deaths may have diminished in number slightly, experts still see problematic statistics ahead. Obviously, they are not impressed with the one percent drop between 2016 and 2017 in car accident fatalities:

“This is good news and bad news,” said Deborah Hersman, CEO of the National Safety Council. “The total number of fatalities is not getting worse, but the situation is not getting better.”

As pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities continue to climb at alarming rates also, analysts point toward logical explanations like more cars on the road due to decreased rates of unemployment. More commuters (and especially those in a hurry to get to work in the morning!) means more chances for accidents—and some of these commuters may be on foot or bike also. Along with that, surprising speed limit hikes could also be to blame in some areas like Texas, where speed limits are as high as 85.

All the concerning issues surrounding traffic accidents and deaths are exacerbated by distracted driving. On its own, this major—and potentially deadly—trend is responsible for over a thousand injuries each day in US traffic. And as smartphones continue to offer growing temptations to drivers (as well as pedestrians!), there does not seem to be an end in sight to distracted driving. Combine that with other electronics in the car that can be fiddled with while driving and other activities too such as grooming, eating, talking on the phone, engaging with passengers, and more—and one can easily understand why statistics are so concerning today. Safety measures and defensive driving must be taken more seriously than ever to protect yourself, your loved ones, and others on the road.

Have you or a loved one been injured in an accident due to the negligence of others? Call our office for a free consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys. We handle all types of Florida personal injury cases, and our law firm has established an impressive record of verdicts and settlements. If you have been seriously injured, call us now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help!

All blogs are written on behalf of Heintz Law for informational purposes. These articles should not, however, be considered legal advice, or in any way responsible for creating an attorney/client relationship.