It seems logical to believe that improved automotive safety features would usher in a decrease in the number of accident fatalities on our roads. What with so many cars and trucks outfitted with airbags, automatic emergency-braking, adaptive cruise control, and other helpful features, it seems that the number of accident-related deaths should be plummeting. But recently, the opposite has been true.
Through the beginning of the year through September of 2016, there were 27,875 fatalities and this number represents an eight percent increase over the number of traffic deaths recorded within the same time frame in 2015.
It is hard to peg a single reason for the unfortunate uptick. But it certainly seems possible that the prolific use of cell phones and other attention-grabbing devices could be a contributing factor.
And researchers are also looking into the possibility that the legalization of marijuana in some states is having an impact as well. But it is hard to gauge if stoned drivers bear some responsibility because thus far no effective roadside test for marijuana impairment has been employed by police.
Whatever the cause or causes, this grim total is only a number. The real story is all of the families who suffer the loss of loved ones in traffic accidents, many of which were completely avoidable.
If you are dealing with the death of a family member which you believe was caused by a negligent driver, you may want to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. The attorney can investigate the accident to determine liability. Depending on the circumstances, you might be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
While a successful lawsuit cannot replace all you have lost, the compensation you receive could help cover funeral costs, medical expenses and even loss of future income if your loved one was a contributor to your household finances