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NHTSA data provides sobering update on fatal car accident trend

On Behalf of | Oct 17, 2016 | Car Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic deaths rose by about 10 percent in the first half of this year. Americans are also driving more, but that 3.3 percent increase from last year does not account for everything.

Nor is the increase an isolated data point. In the last seven consecutive quarters, the rate of fatalities has increased. Before 2014, the general trend was a decrease in traffic fatalities. NHTSA officials say it is too soon to identify specific contributing factors for the increase.

Those who are lucky enough to survive an automobile accident may still need to seek compensation for medical costs and long-term care needs. In order to obtain that assistance, the plaintiff in a personal injury liability lawsuit must prove that the other driver was at fault.

Our attorneys have experience in thoroughly investigating car crash claims. For example, we may work with experts in accident reconstruction to prove how the other driver’s behaviors caused the accident. In determining the amount of damages to pursue, we may rely on the expertise of a medical professional to describe the victim’s injuries and treatment needs.

In the example of a wrongful death claim, we may pursue compensation for damages incurred by surviving family members such as final medical bills, funeral and burial costs, economic loss, the decedent’s pain and suffering, and the loss of love and companionship. Although no amount of money can replace a loved one, a successful wrongful death claim can provide a sense of justice.

Source: The New York Times, “An Alarming 10% Rise in Traffic Deaths in the First Half of 2016,” Daniel Victor, Oct. 5, 2016

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