Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers: Disturbing Surge of Traffic Deaths in 2015

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The automobile industry is manufacturing cars that are safer than ever thanks to standard features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, back-up cameras, and blind-spot warnings. However, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 35,200 people lost their lives in car accidents in 2015, which is close to an eight percent increase from 2014. While officials say that these fatalities were a result of several factors, including economics and higher speed limits, researchers are focusing on how to prevent further wrecks from occurring on our highways.

Christopher A. Hart, chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board has been pushing for more collision-avoidance systems that prevent cars from hitting other cars. The executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association agreed with the concept of automation to an extent, but also suggested some additional ways to address the issue, including stronger traffic laws combined with a more visible presence of law enforcement and supporting public education campaigns.

States With the Most Traffic Deaths in 2015

Maryland car accident lawyers report that the NHTSA found a 20 percent increase in traffic fatalities in 2015 in the following states:

  • Montana
  • Idaho
  • Oregon
  • Washington

There was a 10 percent increase in six New England states followed by a nine percent increase in a grouping of Mid-Atlantic states.

The state of Michigan released its 2015 data, which officials say may be a representation of the current trend. According to Michigan State Police, traffic deaths in general were up 10 percent last year, while deaths involving teens, alcohol, and motorcyclists were up by over 20 percent, and bicycle fatalities were up by 57 percent.

The increase in car accidents nationwide is most likely a combination of factors. An improved economy means more people are traveling, so more cars are on the roads. In addition, more young, inexperienced drivers with expendable income are on the roads driving to and from work, to a friend’s, or to enjoy a night out. All of these factors can contribute to a rise in car accidents and fatalities.

Maryland Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Victims of Traffic Accidents

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or lost their life in a car accident, you are urged to contact the skilled and compassionate Maryland car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. We understand how devastating this can be and we will pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve so that you can focus on your family during this difficult time. We will not stop until justice has been served. For a free 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 injured accident victims and their families throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Parkville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.