Car Crash Deaths: 2015 Was the Deadliest Since 2008
In 2014, the traffic fatality rates were one of the lowest we have witnessed in many years. However, in 2015 traffic deaths increased considerably. In this post our firm’s St Louis Car Crash Lawyer will discuss some key nationwide statistics concerning traffic fatalities.
8 Percent Increase Nationwide
In United States, the number of traffic fatalities increased by around 8 percent in 2015 over the previous year. This shows the largest year to year percentage increase in the last 50 years, according to the National Safety Council. Overall, around 38,300 people lost their lives on US roads and another 4.4 million sustained serious injuries. This make 2015 the deadliest year since 2008 as far as traffic deaths are concerned.
These statistics correspond with the 3.5 percent increase in the number of miles driven in 2015. This can be attributed to lower gas prices and unemployment rates, which means more people on the road at any given time.
Missouri Saw a 14 Percent Increase in Traffic Deaths
If you think an 8 percent nationwide increase in traffic fatalities is shocking enough, here is another shock. This number nearly doubled in the southern states, which witnesses around 15 percent increase traffic deaths. In 2014, Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 766 car accident deaths and in 2015, the number rose to 874. This means, Missouri witnessed a 14 percent increase in fatal traffic accidents.
Over the past few years, car accident deaths have been on a steady decline, which could be due to the increased safety features available in modern cars, which could have saved many lives in potentially fatal crashes. However, the number of fatal crashes that occurred in 2015 were last seen around 2008.
According to Missouri State Highway Patrol, car accident deaths are again on the rise this year. This time in 2015, 122 car accident fatalities were reported, however, this year the figure has reached 134. If the traffic fatalities continue to occur at this rate, we may witness a 9 percent increase this year.
These figures paint a grim picture and shows that we need to do a lot more to prevent fatal car accidents that what we are doing. It is important for everyone to realize that when they get behind the wheel, they are not just responsible for their own life, but for the life of others’ as well. Every possible precaution should be taken to prevent crashes.
Legal Help in St. Louis, MO
If you have been injured in an accident, you are likely faced with huge medical bills and related expenses. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, then you are no doubt struggling not just with the emotional loss, but also with medical bills, funeral expenses, and possibly lost income. These mounting challenges can quickly become overwhelming, especially when insurance companies try to minimize or deny the severity of your claims. Get in touch with an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney at The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. today to ensure that your legal right to compensation is protected. We have been helping victims of car accidents for over 15 years and can do the same for you and your family. Call (314) 361–4242 today for a free consultation.
