Traffic Fatalities High in 2017

According to the National Safety Council, there were approximately 40,000 fatal car accidents in 2017. This was the second year in a row that the number of fatalities were so high. The numbers may be even higher when the official figures are released later this year by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Whatever the final statistic may be, it highlights a growing consensus that the number of fatal car accidents constitute a serious public health crisis that must be addressed.

Car manufacturers have developed a wide range of safety technology that has made today’s cars safer than ever, including collision avoidance systems, strategically placed airbags, lane departure notifications, and rear crash prevention technology. Yet, serious car wrecks continue to take the lives of thousands of Americans every year. Unfortunately, there are other factors that contribute to the high fatality toll.

Seat Belts Save Lives

Seat belts are one of the most effective ways to save lives and reduce injuries in the event of a car accident. However, a surprising number of motorists still do not use their seat belts every time they are in a car, whether they are behind the wheel or a passenger in the rear seat. Even a relatively minor accident can result in serious injuries if the occupants are not wearing a seat belt.

Distracted driving also continues to cause a significant number of serious car accidents. Talking on the phone, texting, or checking something on the computerized dashboard screen that are equipped in many newer vehicles take the driver’s attention away from the road where it belongs. Unfortunately, it only takes a matter of seconds for a tragic wreck to occur because a driver was not paying attention to the road.

While certain lawmakers and auto manufacturers believe that these high fatality rates are going to create a greater sense of urgency for self-driving cars, safety advocates believe that other, more simple improvements are necessary. For example, improved collision warning systems and awareness programs about the dangers of distracted driving will help address the problem and reduce the number of devastating fatalities. There should also be harsh penalties for drivers who are caught talking or texting while driving.

While a lofty goal, safety advocates believe that the only acceptable number of traffic fatalities is zero. According to the CEO of the National Safety Council, this study is a reminder that complacency is not an option. If we do not take aggressive steps towards improving roadway safety, people will continue to lose their lives. We need to mobilize now.

Baltimore Car Wreck Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Justice for Victims of Serious Car Accidents

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, do not hesitate to contact the experienced and compassionate Baltimore car wreck lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. We understand how devastating car accidents can be and we are committed to protecting your rights and fighting to secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.