2016 on Pace to be Deadliest Year for Drivers Since 2007
March 7, 2016
Research from Bradenton Accident Lawyers at Jodat Law Group
The National Safety Council (NSC) released data last month which show that 2016 is shaping up to be the deadliest year for drivers in almost a decade. Through the first six months of the year, nearly 14,000 people lost their lives in fatal accidents. This represents a 14 percent increase compared to the number of fatalities over the same period in 2014, and puts 2015 on pace to reach the most traffic-related deaths since 2007. Jodat Law Group has experienced Bradenton Accident Lawyers that are ready to take your case. Contact us today!
With the summer vacation months not included in the National Safety Council’s release, we may see an even larger spike during the second half of the year. Parts of Florida are already seeing increased numbers of fatal accidents that align with the NSC’s national data. In fact, Florida traffic deaths are up 29 percent this year overall – putting us second only behind Oregon for the largest increase in fatalities.
What is Contributing to 2016’s High Number of Traffic Deaths?
Newsweek reports that the economy may be the primary driving force behind the rising number of traffic fatalities. During the recession, less people were working and taking vacations, which meant that less people were driving on a daily basis. As we emerge from the recession in 2016 and gas prices remain relatively low, the increase in traffic deaths may be attributable to the fact that there are more cars on the roads.
However, experts point to other factors as well – the most significant of which is an increase in driving distractions. With as many as 70 percent of drivers using their phones behind the wheel (and with studies showing that distracted driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving) increased connectivity may be playing a significant part in the increase in traffic deaths in 2016. Speak with your Bradenton accident lawyers at Jodat Law Firm today!
Tips for Avoiding Dangerous Drivers in Bradenton
It only takes a momentary lapse of judgment or a split-second loss of concentration for a fatal accident to occur. Unfortunately, thousands of innocent drivers lose their lives each year because of other drivers’ mistakes. In many cases, innocent drivers are simply unable to avoid fatal collisions due to dangerous drivers’ actions. Bradenton accident lawyers can help! Contact Us.
To give yourself the best chance to stay safe, it is important to know the warning signs of potential accidents. When on the road, watch out for drivers who are:
- Talking on their phone or texting behind the wheel
- Speeding, tailgating, and changing lanes aggressively
- Swerving, not maintaining their speed, or exhibiting other signs of drunk or distracted driving
- Driving too fast for the weather or road conditions
- Driving vehicles with loose roof racks, overloaded truck beds, or shifting cargo on commercial trucks
These drivers present dangerous, potentially life-threatening hazards to their fellow motorists. When in doubt, drive defensively, and leave plenty of space between yourself and a dangerous driver. If you are hit by one of these drives, contact your Bradenton Accident Lawyer here.
Bradenton Accident Lawyers – Contact Jodat Law Group Today
With offices in Bradenton, Sarasota, Tampa, and Venice, Jodat Law Group represents Bradenton accident victims and their families throughout southwest Florida. If you have lost a loved one in a vehicle collision, feel free to contact us for a free consultation.