According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), auto accidents are on the rise and these rising accident numbers are “a troubling departure from a general downward trend.” For the first half of 2015, traffic-related fatalities nationally spiked upward when compared against the same period from 2014. In fact, they jumped by more than 8% over the previous year. And unfortunately, the statistics relating to roadway deaths in 2014 were anything but positive. Statistics from NHTSA reports indicate that, on average, nearly 90 people died in the United States in motor vehicle crashes every day last year.
Is there a specific reason that so many innocent victims are being killed in car accidents in California and throughout the country?
While one cause for this increase in fatal car accidents does not appear to stand out more than others, it is clear that texting and driving, driving under the influence of drugs (including marijuana) and/or alcohol, speeding, and engaging in other negligent behaviors are contributing to these tragic deaths.
Some of these auto accident related deaths may have been prevented by the victims themselves. How? By wearing seatbelts. According the the NHTSA, about half of all motorists who died in accidents during 2013 were reportedly not wearing seat belts.
What else can you do to stay safe while on the roads in the San Fernando Valley, particularly as El Nino blows through, causing our highways and side streets to become slick with rain water and even more crowded with traffic?
First, drive defensively. Always be on the look out for erratic drivers, drivers who are “speed racing”, and those who seem to be very young or very old, as their reflexes may not be as quick as a seasoned driver’s.
Second, avoid driving during rush hour or bad rains, if at all possible.
Third, know that California law and experienced auto accident attorney Barry P. Goldberg are on your side. If you or a loved one are injured in a motorcycle accident or other type of auto accident that was not your fault, read this list of what to do immediately following a car accident in the San Fernando Valley and contact a personal injury attorney right away. You may be able to recover financial compensation for your injuries.
For more information on how to file a claim against a negligent driver, contact San Fernando Valley accident attorney Barry P. Goldberg today for a free consultation.
