By Seth Anderson on September 1, 2016
In the first six months of 2016, 19,100 people died in car crashes, a nine percent increase compared to the first six months of 2015, according to analysis by the National Safety Council (NSC). Fatal car wrecks are also up 18 percent compared to the first six months of 2014
The NSC also found that 2.2 million people were seriously injured in car crashes in the first half of the year. The cost of non-fatal and fatal car wrecks is an estimated $205 billion.
Researchers believe that the increase in traffic deaths was caused by Americans driving more. Americans logged 3.3 more miles behind the wheel in the first half of 2016 compared to the same time period last year.
Americans may be driving more because of an improved economy, which has caused gas prices to be 16 percent lower this year compared to 2015.
The number of car accident deaths averages out to 100 deaths per day, which should outrage us, according to Deborah A.P. Hersman, president of the NSC. However, people have become too complacent on the issue, says Hersman.
The NSC estimates that 438 people will die in car accidents over Labor Day weekend, the council’s highest estimate since 2008.
If you are planning to be on the road over the weekend, you can avoid a dangerous accident by following these practical safety tips:
Have you been seriously injured or lost a loved one in a car accident? Contact the experienced Fort Worth car accident attorneys at Anderson & Cummings to review your claim and find out if you are entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, wrongful death, or other damages.
Contact a personal injury lawyer today by calling (817) 920-9000.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Seth Anderson, whose team has more than 50 years of combined legal experience in helping victims of personal injury seek justice.
Being sued after a crash is one of those situations nobody expects, and when it happens, it can feel overwhelming. You may worry about your finances, your reputation, and how to even begin responding. Many Texans search for what to do if someone sues...
learn more
Drivers across Texas may not even realize they’re doing it, but what is a rolling stop? It’s when a vehicle slows down at a stop sign or red light but doesn’t completely halt before entering the intersection. It might feel like a minor shortcut,...
learn more
Sitting at a red light and questioning, Can you turn right on red in Texas, is a common experience for many drivers across the state. Confusion at intersections is one of the leading contributors to preventable car accidents. The rules aren’t always clear, especially...
learn moreTell us about your accident and your injuries. An injury lawyer from our team will call and provide you with a free evaluation of your case. If we can help, and you are unable to travel, we will come to your home, office, or hospital. It’s easy – let’s get started.
Email us anytime and we will get back to you.
Our attorneys will come to your home, office or hospital at your convenience.
Our team is ready and waiting to help you today.
Message Us 
Call Us