The Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released EARLY estimates of the total number of traffic fatalities which occurred in the first nine months of 2015. Over 26,000 fatalities were reported; this is a troublesome increase of 9.3 percent, compared to the same period in 2014.
The Department of Transportation has worked tirelessly to improve the safety of roadways across the nation. In the past, these efforts have led to a decrease in accident fatalities year after year. The estimated 9.3 percent increase in 2015 traffic fatalities in the first nine month period compared to 2014 numbers is a sharp blow; agency administrators say it’s a red flag that signals a need for improved safety efforts.
What’s Behind the Increase?
The NHTSA states that human elements play a role in a staggering 94 percent of all traffic accidents. Dangerous driving behaviors and choices made by drivers are contributing to the increased number of traffic fatalities occurring throughout the country.
In an effort to combat these factors and lower national accident fatalities, the NHTSA has kicked off a string of one-day regional meetings which will occur across the country, concluding with a national summit in Washington. The goal is to collaborate with new and existing partners in order to generate ideas which can be used to fight against the behaviors leading to fatalities on the nation’s roadways. Participants will address critical issues, such as:
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Proper use of safety features
- Speeding
- Protecting pedestrians and cyclists
When the actions of negligent drivers cause you or your loved ones harm, the careless drivers need to be held accountable. The personal injury attorneys of Greg Coleman Law are committed to helping our clients pursue their cases; our team is attentive to your needs, and we work hard to maximize your compensation.
Call (865) 247-0080 or complete our online form to request a free case evaluation now.
