Early Estimates by DOT Reveal Increase in Traffic Fatalities

Early estimates of traffic fatalities that occurred in the first nine months of 2015 show a disappointing rise in the total number of deaths.

The Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates there was a 9.3 percent increase in traffic fatalities compared to the same period in 2014.

Reversal of Declining Fatalities

Since 2000, there has been a steady decrease in traffic fatalities. From 2000 to 2014, the total number of annual traffic deaths dropped an impressive 22 percent, likely thanks in part to the transportation department’s efforts to improve the safety of roadways throughout the country.

Unfortunately, the early estimates for 2015 signal an end to this decline. The NHTSA estimates more than 26,000 fatalities occurred in the first nine months of 2015, compared to 23,796 in the same period during 2014.

Showing further cause for concern, human factors contribute to a shocking 94 percent of all automobile accidents.

NHTSA Takes Action

Driving behaviors across the country have sent up red flags, signaling the need for action. In response, the NHTSA is stepping up its initiatives to address the problem.

The agency has launched a series of regional summits aimed at addressing the dangerous behaviors that are causing the nation’s traffic death totals to climb. Participants will be analyzing behaviors such as impaired, distracted and drowsy driving as well as speeding and misuse of or failure to use vehicle safety devices.

Human errors and behaviors kill thousands of people each year on the nation’s roadways. If you have lost a loved one to a fatal automobile accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The car accident attorneys at Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, LLP will actively pursue your claim, aiming to maximize your compensation amount.

Call (817) 920-9000 or contact us online to request a free consultation.