Fatal Motor Vehicle Crashes: What You Should Know About the Past and the Future

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wrongful death car accidentsAll it takes is one negligent driver to end a life and change a family forever. The impact is personal and independent of other fatal accidents. While even one fatal accident is one too many, it is important to understand recent trends in fatal crashes and factors that could contribute to how many people may be killed on the road this year.

A Look Back: Federal Government Releases 2013 Fatal Accident Data

In December 2014, the United States Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released important information regarding 2013 fatal accidents. According to the NHTSA:

  • Fatal accidents decreased by about three percent in 2013.
  • Since 2004, fatal accidents have decreased by about 25 percent.

Yet 32,719 people died in motor vehicle accidents in the United States in 2013. On average, that is about 89 people a day. That is 89 people who lost their lives and hundreds of loved ones who are left mourning, grieving, and facing a future without their parent, child, spouse, sibling, friend, or other relative.

A Look Ahead: The Factors That Could Affect 2015 Fatal Accidents

It is too early in the year to report on 2015 fatal accident statistics in Kentucky or around the nation. However, it is important to consider the factors that could impact fatal accidents this year. For example, lower gas prices and a stronger economy could lead people to drive more miles than they have in recent years. This increase could lead to more accidents. At the same time, however, safer cars and laws against distracted driving could prevent more accidents.

Additionally, education and awareness can be powerful ways to prevent fatal accidents. Accordingly, we encourage you to share this library article on Facebook and Twitter. Let others know the truth about fatal accidents so that, together, we can work to prevent individual tragedies.

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