2016 Expected to be a Deadly Year for Auto Accidents
Auto accident fatality rates hit a steady low back in 2014, but these rates shot up significantly in 2015. Last year’s trend predicts an even greater rise in auto accidents across the United States for 2016.
From Salt Lake City to the East Coast, auto-related deaths increased 14 percent in just the first six months of 2015 and didn’t stop there. Moving into 2016, the NHTSA predicts that these rates will continue to rise if changes aren’t made. The organization has announced its commitment to getting a better handle on 2016’s auto accident-related deaths, but there is a broad range of factors contributing to these car crashes and the increased business of many an auto accident lawyer.
Distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of auto accidents in Salt Lake City and elsewhere. Texting and driving is continuing to play a huge role in a typical auto accident case that has resulted from distracted driving. The NSC reported that one in four auto accidents involve cellphone use and this includes texting, calling, Facetime, Snapchatting and more. It’s no wonder many a lawyer is getting more business these days.
Emphasis on hands-free devices and voice control systems in vehicles have become a huge focus in the automotive industry in attempt to get these numbers down, but it is failing to fully eliminate the use of cell phones during driving. Whether you are driving in Salt Lake City or road tripping to the West Coast, drivers are constantly being distracted by the use of their cellphone.
Other leading factors creating cases for an auto accident lawyer include drunk driving, speeding and failure to use a seatbelt. In response to this, automakers have committed to tackling safety issues within their vehicles. GM recently created an option for a system that requires your seatbelt to be used in order to operate your vehicle. This is just the beginning of technology innovations among the auto industry in attempt to cut down on your chances of needing to contact an auto accident lawyer this year.
As the economy starts to rebound from the past years of recession, more drivers are hitting the road. Last June, travel was reported to have increased by 3.5 percent, and more cars mean more accidents. A better economy and lower gas prices in the past year also correlates strongly with the inflated amount of cars on the road. If these trends continue for 2016, we can expect more auto accidents this year, whether you live in a busy town like Salt Lake City, or a small rural town. Eliminate distractions and drive safe.
Alyssa Koenig is a legal writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Robert J Debry. Follow on Twitter.
