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In 2015, there were eight percent more car accident deaths in the United States than the number of fatalities over the course of 2014. The Hill reported the year-to-year rise in collision deaths was the biggest jump in car accident fatalities in more than 50 years. There were already 35,236 people killed in 2014, so the jump in 2015 meant there were 38,300 deaths in collisions in a single year in the United States.
Drivers need to be aware of the fact the roads are more dangerous. While there are many factors which explain the rise in collision deaths, the only thing that will change this dangerous trajectory is for drivers to begin exercising more caution. If motorists exercise reasonable care, El Paso car accidents can be avoided and lives can be saved.
Safety advocates and transportation experts are urging Americans to view the high rate of car accident fatalities in 2015 as a wakeup call and as an alert they need to stop taking driving safety for granted. While cars have gotten a lot safer, driving is still one of the most dangerous activities most people do and car accidents remain one of the leading causes of death in the United States. This, in large part, is caused by unsafe behaviors on the part of motorists.
AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted a study and found 87 percent of drivers had engaged in high risk behaviors like operating their vehicles while impaired by alcohol; driving while drowsy; driving while using a cell phone or otherwise distracted; being in a car without a seat belt; speeding; and running red lights.
Drivers often engage in these behaviors even if they know they shouldn’t. For example, 70 percent of motorists who participated in the AAA survey admitted to using a cell phone as they were operating their vehicle… but among these same drivers, 80 percent acknowledged the dangers of distracted driving and commented they believed distracted driving was a bigger risk on the roads than it was just three years prior. Motorists who engage in high risk behaviors begin to feel more secure in their actions as accidents don’t happen, and they erroneously begin to believe they won’t be one of the motorists who causes a crash by engaging in high-risk behaviors.
While driving behavior is a big factor, The Hill indicates the rise in car accidents from 2014 to 2015 may, in part, have been attributed to more motorists on the road and to more people driving longer distances. Gas prices fell 28 percent between 2014 and 2015, meaning it became much more affordable to drive more frequently.
While the rising number of people on the road helps to explain why accidents happen, it is not acceptable that better economic conditions should always translate to more crashes. Gas prices are going to continue to fall in 2016 according to most economic indicators, which means the death rate this year could be even higher if drivers don’t make a commitment to stop doing things which are dangerous and likely to lead to collisions occurring.
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of car accidents. The prevalence of smartphones and other electronic devices has contributed significantly to the increase in distracted driving incidents. Texting, making phone calls, or using apps while driving can divert attention from the road, leading to potentially fatal accidents. It is crucial for drivers to understand the severe consequences of distracted driving and to adopt habits that keep their focus solely on driving.
Defensive driving is a proactive approach to road safety that can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. By anticipating potential hazards and being prepared to react appropriately, drivers can avoid many common causes of collisions. Defensive driving techniques include maintaining a safe following distance, being aware of other drivers’ behaviors, and adjusting speed according to road and traffic conditions. These practices can help create a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.
Implementing and adhering to safety measures and regulations is essential in reducing car accident rates. This includes wearing seat belts, obeying speed limits, and following traffic signals. Law enforcement agencies play a vital role in enforcing these rules and conducting campaigns to raise awareness about road safety. Drivers should stay informed about local traffic laws and support initiatives aimed at improving road safety.
Keeping vehicles in good condition is another critical aspect of road safety. Regular maintenance checks can prevent mechanical failures that might lead to accidents. Ensuring that brakes, tires, lights, and other crucial components are in working order can help drivers avoid unexpected issues while on the road. Vehicle maintenance should be a priority for all drivers to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
The rising rates of car accidents highlight the urgent need for drivers to prioritize safety. By avoiding high-risk behaviors, practicing defensive driving, adhering to safety regulations, and maintaining their vehicles, drivers can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. It is essential for every driver to take personal responsibility for their actions on the road to create a safer driving environment for everyone.
The Law Offices of Michael Gopin PLLC are committed to helping victims of car accidents in El Paso. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys is dedicated to providing the support and representation you need if you or a loved one has been involved in a collision. We understand the complexities of car accident cases and are here to help you navigate the legal process to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.
Michael J. Gopin has practiced law in El Paso since 1987. Even after more than 30 years, he still remembers his first jury case. It was two weeks after receiving his license, when he represented a person whose life had been forever changed after being blinded in a work-related incident...
We are experienced El Paso personal injury lawyers. Give us a call and you’ll be taken care of! (915) 333-3333
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