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.
Avoiding an Accident Over Labor Day Weekend
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:
- Wear your seatbelt at all times.
- Avoid drowsy driving.
- Do not text and drive or engage in other distracted driving behaviors.
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
- Drive defensively.
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.